Easing sheet - proper proceedure?

[Deleted member 36384]

Having spent nearly all my working life offshore, I would most definitely go for the 'one hand' method.
The sheet is (presumably) under tension - why put your fingers near the wraps? They are not going anywhere if you are easing the sheet in a controlled manner.
I usually
1) Put a few wraps on the winch.
2) Take tension, using the winch, before releasing the clutch.
3) Gradually ease off the sheet.

Never had any difficulty or problems and no nippy fingers........

I would advise that if you insist on the 2 handed method, that you keep your hand absolutely flush with the circumference of the drum, with your thumb sitting in line with your fngers (as opposed to away - as in beer drinking).

I find that 2 hands give complete control. For Example: Pushing a sheet where the winch turns are tight after a strong wind and the wind has now eased may result in a riding turn. As you push the sheet and it goes slack the top turn may jump and fall.

Some winches are quite smooth and very easily allow their load to be eased by one hand, other winches have more grip. Some will actually hold a hard pressed genoa with 4 turns round the winch and the tail just hanging there. Pushing in this case is a bit risky. Giving the tail a wee shake to get it easing does work.

Would I do this on a Maxi with big drums - no of course not. Those winches are super smooth to allow smooth easing by easing the tension on the tail with your hand.

Its horses for courses but standard type, grip faced winch drums respond with good control when using two hands. If done correctly it is very safe. I have found this out by sailing tens of thousands of miles in many boats, on coastal and ocean passages, cruising, racing, over a 23 year period, 9 professionally and I don't hold handrails outside of my work!