Bruce Anchor

A type of claw-shaped anchor designed to provide strong holding power in a variety of seabed conditions. 

The Bruce anchor, also known as a claw anchor, was originally designed by Peter Bruce in the 1970s for use on offshore oil rigs. It has since become popular among recreational boaters due to its reliable holding power and ease of use. The anchor features a single-piece design with a wide, curved fluke that allows it to dig into the seabed quickly and maintain a secure hold. It performs well in sand, mud, and gravel but may struggle in heavy grass or rocky bottoms where it cannot penetrate effectively. 

One of the key advantages of the Bruce anchor is its ability to reset itself if the boat’s position changes due to wind or tide shifts. This makes it a preferred choice for cruising sailors and powerboaters who anchor frequently. Although not as compact as some other anchor types, its design ensures consistent performance with minimal risk of fouling. Many modern claw-style anchors are based on the original Bruce design, though the brand itself is no longer in production.