Which component of an anchor prevents it from rolling?

The stock is the component of an anchor that prevents it from rolling. When an anchor is deployed, it needs to dig into the seabed to provide holding power. The stock is typically a horizontal bar that intersects the shank of the anchor. Its primary function is to keep the anchor in a position that maximizes its ability to penetrate the bottom and prevents it from rolling over as it settles into the sediment. By maintaining a more stable orientation, the stock helps in ensuring that the anchor can effectively resist being pulled out by forces such as wind or current.

In contrast, the fluke is the part of the anchor that digs into the seabed and provides holding power, while the shackle is a connector that joins the anchor to the chain or rope. The crown is the area where the flukes meet the shank. While each of these parts has its own vital role in the performance of the anchor, it is specifically the stock that is designed to prevent rolling, allowing for better anchoring efficiency.