locking or non-locking handle for windlass

[tudorsailor]

I have a Lewmar Ocean electric windlass. Until I lost the handle overboard, I had a light non-locking winch handle at the mast specifically for the windlass, that came with the yacht when I bought it. Someone once told me that one should have a non-locking handle for the windlass. Now that I have to replace the handle, do I have to get a non-locking handle? Lewmar do not do one, but Harken do.
Not a major issue obviously but I am interested in the logic

Thanks

TudorSailor

 

[prv]

Personally I don't really like locking winch handles, but I can't see any reason why an anchor windlass in particular needs a non-locking one.

Pete

 

[Jamesuk]

Personally I don't really like locking winch handles, but I can't see any reason why an anchor windlass in particular needs a non-locking one.

Pete

I quite agree what's the point of anon locking one. We have a windless with the normal winch socket it does lock. I have only come across ideal who do one with a special bar. Hope you find what your looking for

 

[KellysEye]

We use locking winch handles for horizontal winches and non-locking for vertical, for obvious reasons.