A windlass is a specialized marine winch, usually mounted horizontally on a vessel's bow, designed for raising and lowering heavy anchors and chain. It provides significant mechanical advantage for managing anchor line, powered either manually with a handle or electrically, often featuring a clutch-operated, notched gypsy to grip the chain.

Key Features and Types
Purpose: Primarily used for hauling and holding the anchor, but often equipped with drums for warping (handling mooring lines).

Horizontal vs. Vertical: While traditionally horizontal, vertical units (sometimes called capstans) are popular on smaller vessels for better deck space utilization.

Power Source: Manual windlasses rely on manual cranking, while electric/hydraulic models are operated via deck buttons or handheld remotes.

Components: Includes a gearbox, motor (if electric), gypsy (chain wheel), and sometimes warping drums.

Windlasses differ from capstans by having a horizontal axle, whereas capstans have a vertical axis.