Choosing an Active Anchor: DF200 to DF600

Key points

• Start with the boat and intended use, then compare models.
• Whole-foot figures are approximate where shown; metric thresholds govern close decisions.
• Anchor weight is not the weight of a complete packed kit.
• Check the pivot stop, reset tool, storage and other supplied equipment separately.

The current TMP UK selection references

These are selection references, not certification for every boat of that length. The DF200 threshold is exactly 12ft, equivalent to 3.6576m; its displayed metric figure is rounded. The other exact matching limits are 4.2m, 7m, 10m and 15m respectively.

For example, a boat measured at exactly 50ft is about 15.24m, beyond the DF600's 15m selection threshold. Do not round the boat down because a headline says approximately 50ft. Use the anchor finder and ask about an unresolved boundary before ordering.

DF200 and DF300: handling and small-craft use

The DF200 is the lightest model in the TMP range and is presented for kayaks, personal watercraft and small tenders within its selection reference. The DF300 sits above it and is presented for small boats and tenders.

Small-craft selection involves more than the ability to carry the anchor itself. Check where the bag, rope or chain and tool will go, how the equipment can be accessed, and the craft manufacturer's anchoring guidance. A storage photograph from another kayak or PWC does not prove a fit on yours.

DF400, DF500 and DF600: check the job as well as the size

The DF400 is the fishing-boat and runabout model in the middle of the range. Its handling and storage need to suit the space actually available aboard, not just the nominal length of the boat.

The DF500 and DF600 extend the range to larger vessels. Their removable pivot-stop arrangement needs particular attention: with the stop fitted, release is disabled. Primary, secondary and stern-anchor roles also present different questions; a reported use in one role does not establish suitability in another.

Compare the kit you will actually receive

Separate the anchor from its accessories. A product photograph may show a bag, chain, swivel, shackle, rope or ring, but that does not establish the contents of every model or market-specific kit. TMP's current kit information includes a reset tool with every model.

Check the selected product's contents and ask about any component essential to your proposed arrangement. If you are matching chain to existing equipment, the anchor's size alone does not establish windlass compatibility. Do not treat a kit photograph as a specification for a complete installed anchoring system.

Our recommendation before choosing

Use length to shortlist, then describe the real job: the craft, its use, the expected anchoring role, the available storage and any existing handling equipment. That gives us something useful to check rather than asking which anchor is best in the abstract.

We would not replace a heavier existing anchor purely because a lighter model looks easier to carry. Selection needs a defensible basis for the actual vessel and duty. Contact TMP Global with the details if those checks are unresolved, and use the range collection for current product and ordering information.

Frequently asked questions

Does boat length alone confirm the correct model?

No. It helps narrow the range. The boat, intended role, conditions, rode, handling and physical fit still need consideration.

Should I use Australian product figures or TMP's UK references?

Use the current TMP product and finder information for a TMP order. Some manufacturer pages and original drawings retain different historical figures; ask about any disagreement.

Does a bag photograph show everything supplied?

Not necessarily. Check the selected model's current contents. Accessories and photographed arrangements can differ between products and sources.