The tri sail track is to avoid unbending the main as you suggest. Double
reefs are not sufficient. You need a deep reef at least and a trisail
and storm jib are best for ocean crossings.

Cheers MC

Joe wrote:

In a storm would you, if you had a ketch:

1. reef down the main and mizzen, drop the jib.
2. use just a tri sail on the main mast.
3. use a storm jib and a reefed mizzen.
4. just use a storm jib.
5. Use just a reefed main
6. Use a reefed main and a storm jib.

And why is a tri sail track offset on the main mast?

Is it just because you can raise the sail fast without un-bending the
main, or does it have something to do with shape.

How much, if any foil shape should a tri sail have?

And how do you best figure what size tri sail you should use?

And with a quick double reefing system, do you think a tri sail is
needed?

Thanks

Joe
MSV RedCloud