GemLock strut with hinge bent
GemLock strut with hinge straight

Hinges and folding struts


Yes you CAN fold stainless tubing

Better access.
Better stowage.
Just better.


Gemini Marine Product’s patented articulated 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 strut made with Gemini Marine Products' articulated hinge.
CAD drawing of strapless bimini setup from exterior
drawing of hinge mechanism

GemLock struts lock in position with a sleeve that slides over the joint made with our articulated hinge 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.

See how it’s done


Strapless bimini conversion guide  download

Review your new
hinges and struts


Read hinge and strut
reviews


Broke

June 28, 2019

Bought six. First time out, two broke immediately. Quality not as high as I’d expected.

Jason C.

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.

Excellent service and product

March 12, 2019

Excellent service and product

Graeme H.

Ok so far

August 9, 2017

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.

John H.

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.

Quick shipping and good quality

July 6, 2017

the slid mount seems really nice. I haven’t installed them yet but, they look really nice.

Daniel H.

SS 1-1/4 Eye End

June 3, 2017

Early evaluation of this product is great.

Gordon S.

Nice products

May 7, 2017

I purchased the 1″ eye ends for a solar install. They came came highly recommended from friends. The materials arrived in a timely manner and are being used as I write! Thank You

Philip V.

Response from Gemini Marine Products

You are so welcome. Hello friends! Thanks for the recommendation.

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