New sails? Little help please?
Brian,
Picking sails are a lot like picking a lover. You have to consider need,
cost, how and what you are going to use them for.
I'll tell you what I have and why;
I have a Hild Kappa Cut 10-40 regulator 155% Genny on a self furling
Harkens. The damn thing is just about bullet proof. I use it about 98%
of the time. ( I always liked Herb Hild's theory, " that anything that
can keep me, my family, and my friends from working on the pointy end of
the boat is a good thing.)
I also have a Hild Drifter 170% for use in ghosting conditions.
I have a 150 Assy Spinn in a sock for down wind work. (It is a left over
from my Racing Days.
Both the Drifter and the Assy are free flying sail but both have the
ability to be carried in the headsail track ( another hold over from
Racing)
I guess you know by now, I've got a new main by North. It is fully
battened. Has two sets of reef points, a cunningham, and drawstring on
the foot and on the leech. It is a 7 oz Dacron. It is carried in Lazy
Jacks. I guess you know, if you have been following group, you know it
is a free footed sail. It replaced a UK which had a shelf. I really like
the sail. So far I haven't missed the shelf.
Brian, That is the set-up this old man uses for single handing and it
works well for me.
Is you aren't racing I wouldn't bother with the Tri headsail but if you
can afford it, it does hold a better shape over wider wind strengths.
You also know, if you have been following Neal and I, you know there is
a great difference in price between Lofts. I prefer dealing with a known
sailmaker and local loft. It does cost me.
You can get bargain sails but get a look at their work. Check on how
they stitch, how they handle corners and reef points and the type of
fitting they use.
Also, consider who is going to handle any adjustments if necessary
Good luck to you and happy sailing
And; "I'LL DRINK TO THAT!"
Ole Thom
|