C. Sherman Johnson Stanchion/Rail Add-A-Cleat

The C. Sherman Johnson Stanchion/Rail Add-A-Cleat creates a convenient tie-off point on an existing rail without requiring a new deck-mounted cleat. It clamps to 7/8 in and 1 in diameter stanchions or rails with the supplied hardware, and larger rails can be accommodated when a longer clamp is used. The 4-1/2 in cleat provides a practical place for fender lines, flag halyards, and other light-duty lines that benefit from a nearby fastening point. This makes the fitting useful when the best line location is on a vertical or horizontal rail rather than on the deck.

The assembly combines a heavy stainless bracket and clamp with a nylon-coated aluminum cleat. The coating gives the line a smoother contact surface while the metal bracket carries the mounting load into the rail. Installation requires only a screwdriver, so the cleat can be added without drilling through the deck or dismantling the rail system. Its clamp-on format also makes relocation possible if the preferred line position changes later.

• Clamps to common 7/8 in and 1 in rails or stanchions
• 4-1/2 in cleat provides a compact line tie-off
• Useful for fenders and flag halyards
• Installs with a screwdriver and no deck drilling

Use a clamp length appropriate to the actual rail diameter and tighten the fitting so it cannot rotate under normal line handling. The supporting rail should be evaluated before using the cleat for any load beyond the light-duty applications described by the manufacturer. Browse more Sailing Hardware for compatible hardware and related marine rigging components.