Blocks - how to choose the right size and shape
Dear Modelers,
You can find the calculation table for rope diameters and block sizes HERE.
This table is also available in an rigging calculator for easier visualization, including block size conversions.
Why blocks matter and where to get them
Blocks are one of the essential elements of a good model of a historical sailing ship. Producing them in high quality and in large quantities is demanding, which is why we manufacture them for you on CNC machines from top-grade walnut wood.
HiSModel Block Range
- Sizes from 2 to 12 mm.
- Standard single, double, and triple blocks in sizes 2–10 mm.
- Special types – violin blocks, tackle blocks, heart blocks, and others in sizes 4–12 mm.
- Deadeyes are supplied by Amati.
The table of block dimensions and designations is shown below along with photos. Please note that images of small blocks are magnified many times.
You can find the offered blocks HERE.
Historical Standards
We produce blocks with shapes and proportions corresponding to the British standard (around the turn of the 18th–19th century) as well as blocks according to the continental standards based on sources from ANCRE.
When choosing, it is important to know the period and origin of the ship. A simple rule applies:
- English (British) blocks – for British ships from the early 18th century onwards.
- Continental blocks – for all European ships up to the 18th century; from the 18th century onwards for ships of continental Europe (France, Spain, the Netherlands, etc.).
How to choose the right size
The best way is to rely on professionally prepared plans. If you don’t have them or are unsure about the sizes, use our rigging calculator (according to Wolfram zu Mondfeld, Historic Ship Models, pp. 272 and 308).
You can download the original table – calculation of rope diameters and block sizes – HERE.
In Rigging calculator, simply enter the scale of your model and the actual diameter of the main mast at the main deck. All other rope diameters and recommended block sizes are calculated automatically.
Rigging plans with marked blocks
To make using the blocks easier, we are preparing ready-to-use rigging plans based on original sources. In the plans, the recommended blocks are clearly marked with symbols, and the sizes are specified for each model.
You can find the plans along with other accessories in the categories for each model HERE. You can then easily match the block size to the corresponding rope thickness using the table above.
Do you have any questions? Write to us at the e-mail address at the bottom of the page. We wish you enjoyable modeling!