Triple blocks continental

Product detailed description

HiSModel manufactures a wide range of high-quality ship blocks made of walnut wood using modern CNC technology. These blocks are intended for static models of historic sailing ships. The blocks feature precisely drilled holes for threading ropes, but they do not include a functional sheave mechanism or freely rotating parts, and are therefore primarily intended for realistic representation of the ship’s rigging.

Continental blocks – characteristics

Standard ship blocks are manufactured as single, double, and triple blocks in two basic shape types: British and Continental. The Continental block type is characterized by a more rounded shape and was widely used across Europe, including the British Isles, until the 18th century. Only with the gradual adoption of the more angular British-type blocks in the Royal Navy did the Continental shape begin to be phased out on British ships. Continental blocks are therefore an ideal choice for models of European as well as British sailing ships from the 16th century up to the mid-18th century.

Triple ship blocks

Triple ship blocks are designed for leading three ropes through three sheaves positioned side by side on a single axle and separated by partitions inside the block body. They were used in locations subjected to the highest loads, where very large forces had to be transferred in a way that could still be handled by the crew.

These blocks were primarily used as part of the heaviest-duty block and tackle systems, for example when tensioning main shrouds, hoisting main yards, handling very heavy loads, or lifting the ship’s anchor. Triple blocks allowed maximum load distribution and were among the most heavily stressed components of the rigging.

Size range

HiSModel manufactures Continental-type triple blocks in sizes ranging from 3 mm to 10 mm. Other dimensions can be produced on request.

Choosing block size and rope diameter

On real ships, the rope diameter was selected according to the load, and a corresponding block size was used for that rope diameter. The same principle is recommended when building ship models.

For correct determination of rope diameters and block sizes, we use historical reference tables based on the size and type of the ship. These tables can be found here:
👉 Rigging calculator – instructions

Detailed information on correct block usage can be found in our instructions.
If rope diameters and block sizes are specified directly in your ship plans, we recommend following those values as a priority.

Ropes of suitable diameters for rigging can be purchased here: ropes for ship models.

Recommended rope diameters according to block height: