Kemp Packaway system question

[bluedragon]

I've just ordered a Kemp Packaway drop-bag / lazy jack system. My question is how well these and similar systems work with normally battened mainsails? Kemp could modify my existing (almost new) mainsail to what they call a Powermain (3/4 battens) if I wish, but I wondered whether this will make a real difference? I'm not really concerned about sail efficiency and performance, but do want a drop system that goes into the bag with minimum fuss. Thoughts and experiences?

 

[Swagman]

The longer the battens then the less likely (as the sail comes down) of it flogging and depositing some of the sail outside the drop bag.
Once it is down, trying to fold in surplus sail area is too much like hard work.
JOHN

 

[Cloven]

I have a conventionally battened main (ie not long battens) and a similar "stackpack" sysyetm.

Main thing is to ensure boat is head-to-wind when either raising or lowering sail. If not, when raising the sail the battens can catch the wrong side of the lazyjacks or when lowering, folds in the sail can drop outside the bag. Former is more of a problem if you don't notice is happening!. Latter is just a bit of a pain and makes tidying up a little longer. If boat is head-to-wind then no problems.

Hope this helps.