Please select your home edition
Edition
Cyclops Marine 2023 November - LEADERBOARD

Extend your reach with Ronstan Battlesticks

by Aleix Escorsell 30 Apr 2020 09:00 PDT
Extend your reach with Ronstan Battlesticks © Heidi Bucktin / Ronstan

Ronstan is an Australian born company who has developed hardware for both small and big boats since 1953. In this article we will look at their extensive range of tiller extensions which have become a brand in their own right: the Ronstan Battlestick.

Ronstan Battlesticks is the self-professed 'next generation of sailing weaponry'. However, they have been on the market for many years and their comprehensive range is split into three general groups, with a clear focus which is on dinghies and sportsboats:

  • Fixed length Alloy
  • Fixed length Carbon
  • Telescopic Alloy

Both Fixed length ranges have the same x6 lengths ranging from 610mm - 2500mm. Ronstan are one of the few manufacturers who have a fixed length tiller extension at this 2500mm length, but it is perfect for catamarans and monohull dinghies where the helm is out on the wire (e.g. Skiffs, Nacra 17, 49er, Tornado and A-Class cats).

The Carbon tiller extensions are a more recent addition to the original alloy range. One of the biggest selling points for the Ronstan Battlestick alloy range is its high quality, unique, fluted tube profile. This gives it exceptional strength to weight, and Battlesticks are renowned for their durability which is the main reason why they are the go-to product for many OEM dinghy manufacturers.

However, as more competition came into the market from other manufacturers, the durability of the alloy Battlestick does come with a small weight penalty. Therefore the Carbon Battlesticks were introduced, to provide customers with an all-out performance racing solution.

We can see this by comparing the Ronstan Battlestick technical data with another well-known fixed length tiller extension.

DescriptionLength (mm)Tube DiameterWeight (g)
Ronstan Alloy125016260
Harken Alloy122016203
Ronstan Carbon125524179
Ronstan Telescopic740 - 121016 + 20285

The increased tube diameter in the carbon tiller extension is required to deliver the necessary tube stiffness and strength, over its length.

Interestingly, the Evalon® Grip on the Alloy Battlesticks is deliberately set at 25mm to contrast ergonomically with the mainsheet diameter to relieve hand fatigue. On the carbon version, both to reduce weight and achieve the correct grip diameter they use an ultra-thin, lightweight grip which results in a similar grip diameter to the alloy Battlesticks but achieves an all-up weight approximately 30% lighter.

The 2500mm Carbon Battlestick is supplied without grip or end-cap to allow customers to cut and finish the tube to a custom length.

The Telescopic alloy Battlestick range come in four sizes with the smallest having a min/max length of 740-1120 mm and the largest 1530-2490mm.

Having a telescopic tiller extension provides the helm with far more flexibility between light air and heavy air conditions and a variety of grip options are available (inboard, outboard, split) to suit personal preferences.

All Ronstan Battlesticks feature a safety end-knob for positive hand positioning.

Regardless of what type of dinghy or sportsboat you have and whether you are looking to maximise performance or reliability, Ronstan has a Battlestick to suit your needs.

Check out tiller extensions on the upffront.com website. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at

Related Articles

The launch of new TracMount TieDown system
Designed to secure one-inch webbing straps, bungee cords or paracord RAILBLAZA, manufacturer of premium quality, user-friendly electronics, fishing and boating mounting systems and accessories, announced today the launch of its new TracMount TieDown system. Posted on 11 Jul
2025 Model Year Dealer Award recipients announced
Recognised for exceptional sales and customer service achievements Sailfish Boats is pleased to announce its 2025 Model Year award winners for exceptional sales and customer service achievements. Posted on 11 Jul
Seldén Rodkicker 50 - manual rigid vang
Specifically sized for yachts between 50 and 55 feet A Rodkicker rigid vang is designed to enhance sail handling during reefing and allows for greater sail trim control. Posted on 11 Jul
New tariff announcements continue
Brazil and Copper imports face 50% tariff Yesterday, President Donald Trump announced additional plans to impose new tariff rates on imports from several countries, including Brazil and the Philippines. Posted on 10 Jul
IMTRA introduces Zipwake PRO
The ultimate upgrade to Zipwake's award-winning Dynamic Trim Control System IMTRA, the leading manufacturer and importer of quality solutions and products for the marine, energy and transportation markets, announced today the introduction of the newest innovation in vessel pitch and roll control, Zipwake PRO. Posted on 10 Jul
Start-Up Pitching Competition at IBEX 2025
Following a successful debut in 2024 IBEX announced today that following a successful debut in 2024, Yachting Ventures is bringing back its popular Start-Up Pitch Competition to the International BoatBuilders' Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) on Wednesday October 8, 2025. Posted on 9 Jul
Coast Guard rescues over 200 Texas Hill survivors
As the nation mourns, the Coast Guard Foundation steps in to support Coast Guard heroes The Coast Guard Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to strengthening the Coast Guard community and service by supporting members and families all across the country. Posted on 9 Jul
Legislation passed supporting US industry growth
A summary of news relevant to marine businesses across North America On Friday, President Trump signed what he referred to as "one big beautiful bill": legislation that preserves key provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Job Act (TCJA). These provisions will continue to support growth. Posted on 9 Jul
Trump Administration announces new tariffs
Implementation delayed to Aug. 1 President Donald Trump announced plans to impose new tariff rates on imports from several countries starting on Aug. 1, citing what he described as unfair trade practices and persistent trade imbalances. Posted on 8 Jul
Lenco announced partnership with De Antonio Yachts
Bringing Lenco™ Pro Control™ to a variety of new models Lenco™, a leader in the design and manufacture of trim tabs, actuators, hatch lifts and accessories, today announced its partnership with De Antonio Yachts. Posted on 8 Jul
Maritimo M75Cyclops Marine 2023 November - FOOTERAllen Dynamic 40 Footer