What are the U-shaped metal fittings along the sides of the lifeboat in the gunwales used to put the oars into called?

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Multiple Choice

What are the U-shaped metal fittings along the sides of the lifeboat in the gunwales used to put the oars into called?

Rowlocks, also called oarlocks, are the U-shaped metal fittings mounted along the gunwales that cradle the oars and let them pivot as you row. They provide a smooth, pivoting support so you can apply leverage efficiently. Thole pins are a different setup where the oar rests on fixed pins rather than in a cradle, and gunlocks isn’t a term used for this oar hardware. So the fittings described are rowlocks (oarlocks).

Rowlocks, also called oarlocks, are the U-shaped metal fittings mounted along the gunwales that cradle the oars and let them pivot as you row. They provide a smooth, pivoting support so you can apply leverage efficiently. Thole pins are a different setup where the oar rests on fixed pins rather than in a cradle, and gunlocks isn’t a term used for this oar hardware. So the fittings described are rowlocks (oarlocks).

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