On Tue, 02 Aug 2005 23:54:20 -0300, Terry Spragg
wrote:

wrote:

My question was really just a sneaky attempt to re-start the furling vs
non-furling headsail religious argument. I have issued a fatwa against
all who disagree with me.


And obviously haven't the guts to announce your standpoint until the
winner is known?


Well, that's one thing, but I don't think you can call a "winner" on
this issue. Really, unless you're a racer and understand the logic of
hank-ons, it's strictly a rearguard action. Furling has won.

Having said that, I have converted more than one luff tape racing
foresail into a hank-on genoa/jib. That's how I got a Spectra/Mylar
No. 1 for $200: "not good enough for racing" means five years of fast
cruising for me.

This year I am converting a perfectly good Dacron No. 3/working jib
from a C&C 34R to my needs with a $125 tape-luff to hank on
conversion. The thing is almost new and needs no recutting (for my
needs, anyway, as I don't sail to a PHRF rule); it was simply packed
away nicely when the PO went to $12K worth of composite sails.

Racers with high standards and deep pockets are an amazing resource of
Spectra, Vectran and "retired" Dacron for the frugal cruiser.

R.