gas filled vang or boom strut

[Shearwater]

So I've decided to treat myself to one of these so I can do away with a topping lift and get a better sail shape - and have spent an hour on the Net trying to find a UK supplier. I have a 24 footer. If u can suggest a supplier I'll be glad to fgollow up yr suggestion. Tks.

 

[BAtoo]

Try this or next size up - http://www.mailspeedmarine.com/ProductDe...32-7c877895c1de - cheap & simple

 

[andy_wilson]

I can't see how you will achieve better sail shape with a gas strut rather than just a standard kicking strap. If anything you will need more purchase on the strap to compress the strut (which does nothing except neutralize the weight of the boom) before you can then start to control twist of the sail.

On the otherhand, with a topping lift you can fully scandalise the main, which a boom strut effectively removes the possibility of.

A boom strut is a complication to overcome the minor inconvenience of using the topping lift when setting, handing or reefing the main. If you are actively using the strut control, you will probably need to slacken and re-adjust it on all those occassions that you use the topping lift anyway. Whilst a rod kicker can't get lost up the mast, they can and do eventually sieze and cause problems. A topping lift remains pretty low tech (reliable).

If you are concerned about sail shape you need to invest in.
1. A great main sail set on a correctly tuned rig.
2. A good main sheet track and tackle.
3. Powerful kicking strap.
4. A good book (or tuition).
5. A better main sail.

Also, a topping lift is the best bit of rig (along with the mainsheet) that gives you a chance of saving the mast if the backstay parts (unless you have a spare main halyard rigged).

Unless you have a spare main halyard, the topping lift is the only bit of rig that can save your day if an inexperienced crew member lets go of the main halyard in a bit of a blow.

If you have a fractional rig, the topping lift is the only bit of rig that will act as a safety line if you need to go to the very top of the mast.

I like topping lifts.

All IMHO!

 

[Shearwater]

Thank you Andy - I shall take your advice, save some money and learn more about sailing !