Belaying Pin -

A is a traditional nautical tool used to secure the ropes of a ship's running rigging. Shaped like a short, solid rod with a flared handle, it is inserted into holes in a pin rail or fife rail . While largely replaced by modern cleats on most vessels, they remain essential on square-rigged and traditionally rigged sailing ships. Form and Function Belaying pin dimensions - Masting, rigging and sails