I run 300' 5/16 G4 chain connected to my 55# Rocna holding my 14 ton fly bridge trawler. Chain is rusty, no noticable wear on the links that I could see but want to hear if anyone has actually had a break in adverse conditions. Tons of talk about formulas for windage etc for sizing, heavier is better for sleep at night peace, but in real life is breakage a real or common incident?

I use a nylon snubber from rope companies like American Rope to take the shock load off the chain. Their 100% marine grade nylon handles sudden stops way better than a rusty chain alone. Proper sizing and regular gear checks keep things reliable, and I sleep easier knowing the weak link is a quality product, not the metal.