Barton Marine

Overview

Barton Marine is a manufacturer of sailing hardware including blocks, tracks, cars, and running rigging, based in the United Kingdom. The company specializes in products made from materials like Tufnol and stainless steel, targeting leisure marine yachting. It holds a position as a supplier of engineered deck hardware with a focus on lightweight and strong components for sailing applications.¹³⁶

History

Barton Marine originated in 1948 when founder Ron Barton began manufacturing yachting blocks using Tufnol laminated resin and stainless steel in Whitstable, England. The company moved to Cromwell Road in Whitstable in 1963, gaining international recognition particularly for winches in the USA. Barton Marine Equipment Limited was formally incorporated as a private limited company on 19 May 1986. It continues operations from Marine House, Tyler Way, Whitstable, Kent.²³⁶⁷

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured at the company's factory in Whitstable, Southeast England. Production is in-house, emphasizing processes with Tufnol and stainless steel. A US sales entity, Barton US LLC, operates in Hampton, Virginia, but manufacturing remains UK-based.³⁵⁶

Notable Products

• Tufnol Blocks - Lightweight blocks using fabric-based laminated resin and stainless steel.
• High-Load Blocks - Engineered blocks for heavy sailing loads.
• Track Systems - Sliding tracks and cars for sail control.
• Winches - Manual winches popular in the US market.
• Running Rigging Hardware - Lines and fittings for sail adjustment.

Reputation

Barton Marine is recognized among sailing enthusiasts for durable, lightweight hardware rooted in UK shipwright heritage. Professionals value its engineering innovations like Tufnol composites for strength-to-weight benefits. Some note limited scale compared to larger competitors, reflected in small employee count and revenue.¹⁵⁶