From WikiPOBia

A capstan is a mechanical device used to pull on a rope or chain. It is capable of exerting great force on a rope and thus lifting heavy weights or pulling a vast load. The capstan is used to weigh or lift the anchor or other large loads. The capstan consists of a head and a barrel. The head has holes around its periphery. Long bars are shipped or placed into these holes. If the ends of the bars are secured to each other, they are “swifted”. Sailors push on each of the long bars. The mechanical advantage of the capstan is achieved by the length of the bars. Beneath the head is the barrel. The rope or chain to be pulled on is wrapped around the barrel. To “paul the capstan” is to put pauls into place on the capstan. These stop the capstan from turning in the reverse direction. ^[1]


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