Hinges and folding struts
Yes you CAN fold stainless tubing
Better access.
Better stowage.
Just better.
Gemini Marine Product’s patented articulated barrel hinge and GemLock folding strut assembly bring simplicity and elegance to your boat.
When opened, a perfectly placed pair of push buttons lock a sleeve in place over the hinge so the strut only folds when you want it to fold.
The design ensures that any strut can also double up as an ocean-rugged grab rail, even when also acting in another capacity. Our step-by-step instructions make it easy – see below.
Use them to:
- Make spreader bars on bimini tops that eliminate tensioning straps and give your boat a cleaner look and better cockpit access.
- Install grab rails and pusher bars on dodgers that fold quickly for easy storage.
- Make folding tables and T-tops, openings in life line rails and stowable jumper seats.
Don’t forget:
Now you can buy kits to add grab rails or convert to a strapless bimini with ease.
Kits contain all the parts you need to install today.
Order now
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Read reviews or leave yours at the bottom of this page.
Assembled GemLock folding struts
Ready-to-install assembled struts are available in 7/8” and 1” tubing using 316 marine grade stainless steel throughout. Both sizes come in 3′ or 6′ lengths – simply cut to your required length and install on your boat.
GemLock struts lock in position with a sleeve that slides over the hinged joint and is secured in position with a spring ball on either end. Our struts only fold when you want them to fold, making the entire length of a strut a great grab rail.
Why do you need our folding struts? So you can do things you can’t do any other way.
Articulated hinges
Individual articulated barrel hinges are available in a variety of sizes to meet different needs. Please consult our product specifications for details or call us for advice on which hinge is best for your job.
Good Gear says our hardware gives your boat “a certain elegant attraction“.
Ordering is quick, easy and secure
Just choose the items you need and add them to your cart.
You can even leave your cart to do more shopping then check out any time you’re ready. To return to your cart, click the box at the far right of every page (the cart box is only visible after you have added items to your cart).
You can also buy from any of our distributors if you prefer.
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hinges and struts
Read hinge and strut
reviews
Extremely well made!
Well made, works fine, fast shipping. Dat’s about all ya can ask for a special purpose hinges.
Response from Gemini Marine Products
So pleased we could help! Thank you for the kind words.
Excellent Company
Extremely satisfied with their product and service.
Stainless steel hinge
These were not round.
Had to take them to machine shop and have them turned to fit. The shank on them is not .065. Closer to .875. Being they were larger and out of round. They had to be turned.
Luckily I work for a large airline and was able to take them to work.
Response from Gemini Marine Products
Thank you for this feedback. To help clarify: The description for this item clearly states, “Size: 1″ stainless steel hinge for use with .065″ wall thickness stainless steel tubing” – the insert portion of the hinge is not .065″. That is the wall thickness of the stainless tubing for which is it designed to be used. While it is possible it was out of round, the hinge is purposely designed to be slightly small for 1″ x .065 tubing, and the 0-ring is intended to compensate for any distortions in either the hinge casting or the tubing. We’re sorry this confusion caused you extra work, but we’re very happy you like them.
Broke
Bought six. First time out, two broke immediately. Quality not as high as I’d expected.
Response from Gemini Marine Products
Hello Mr C. We’re sorry our hinges didn’t meet your expectations. In your other communication you said you used them on a bimini. It sounds as if perhaps they were used in a way that overtaxed their design (did you leave your bimini up while underway?) and a stronger stainless steel hinge would have been a better option. We are always here (by email or telephone) to give advice on which of our products is the best fit for any given situation.
Ok so far
I like this product as its serves a nitch propose. However, the hinge itself is a built lose and wobbly. I’ve also purchased the plastic version for aluminum and noticed that the fit of the hinge is much tighter. I wish this hinge used the same design and the plastic one.
Response from Gemini Marine Products
Yes we agree. These hinges were strong, but indeed they could feel a bit loose for some applications, so thank you for this feedback. We have redesigned our stainless steel hinges and remanufactured. We now (October 2019) have the new hinges in stock, and they are considerably tighter than the old ones.