xyachtdave
Well-known member
Yes the norm for us.Tried and checked most friction / load issues . Try to avoid being out in a 6 in our little boat but we can all get caught out . It's surprising how it can gust just when you don't want it to . Anyone ever used the downwind tactic as a norm ?
In anything above 12-15 knots its the best option on our boat. Below deck furling whilst allowing an extra bit of sail area creates a couple of 90 degree bends in the furling line. I've added every bit of Harken friction reducing greatness to it, an improvement but not perfect.
Add in the masthead rig and corresponding head sail size and we'd have an issue if we just let the sheet fly to windward and pull the furling line.
Quick bear away and then furl, all done in 10 seconds so not an issue.