C. Sherman Johnson 21-81 Over-Center Lifeline Pelican Hook Body Only

The C. Sherman Johnson 21-81 is a replacement "over-center" lifeline pelican hook body designed for sailors looking to upgrade or replace the hook on an existing boarding gate wire. Simply match your current thread size — 1/4"-28 LH or 5/16"-24 RH — and thread this body directly onto the stud of your boarding gate wire for a direct-fit replacement.

What sets this hook apart is its true over-center geometry: the body of the fitting carries the load of a fall against the boarding gate, rather than the hinge or plunger pins. This engineered load path makes it one of the safest pelican hooks available for sailboat lifeline systems. An additional benefit of the over-center design is that the hook opens easily under tension — there's no need to create slack in the lifeline before releasing it.

Key Features:

• Available in two thread sizes: 1/4"-28 LH (left-hand) or 5/16"-24 RH (right-hand)
• True over-center design transfers load to the hook body, not the hinge or plunger pins
• Releases easily under load via special claw design with pull pin release
• Stays secure thanks to a heavy, welded split ring on the plunger latching device
• Investment cast T-316 stainless steel construction for superior corrosion resistance
• 3-1/2" grip length from end of body to bearing point of hook
• 4" overall length
• Repair kit (sold separately) available for lost or worn latching mechanisms

Sold as body only — ideal for replacing an existing pelican hook without replacing the entire terminal assembly. Note: Not recommended for standing rigging or other high-load applications beyond lifeline use.