Radar reflector

[nathanlee]

I was going to post this on the thread that's currently on SB, but I decided it's more apt in it's own thread on here.

I have one of those crappy - probably do nothing to help me - 10" radar reflectors, which I was going to run up the the spreader of my Corribee in place of burgee when I'm sailing, but I struck upon a thought which I wanted to run by those in the know...

I can't really get it up the backstay, but what about attaching it to the topping lift?

Cheers,

Nathan

 

[saltwater_gypsy]

It doesn't really matter where you put it as long as you hoist it in the "catch rain" configuration.
The traditional radar reflector was surprisingly good in the tests although 18"" would clearly be better than 10"

 

[Fr J Hackett]

It is likely to foul the leech of the main isn't it and cause chafe.

 

[nathanlee]

[ QUOTE ]
It is likely to foul the leech of the main isn't it and cause chafe.

[/ QUOTE ]

Ah, yeah, that's fair point. I'll keep it on the spreader then. I just though I could get it a bit higher on the topping lift.

 

[LittleSister]

[ QUOTE ]
... radar reflectors, which I was going to run up the the spreader of my Corribee in place of burgee when I'm sailing,

[/ QUOTE ]

You'll need to rig up a little cat's cradle of cord to hold it firmly in place, otherwise it'll fly around as a result of the motion of the boat, to the detriment of your mast anodising, radar echo and sang froid.

 

[Scotty_Tradewind]

[ QUOTE ]

The traditional radar reflector was surprisingly good in the tests although 18"" would clearly be better than 10"

[/ QUOTE ]
Hello Hugh, which tests were those? All the tests or comments I've seen suggest that all but the Active reflectors were next to useless.
I've been aboard a yacht 150 miles off Biscay when we have been seen on radar by shipping without active radar, but we may have been visible on their radar without the old bit of metal hanging from the rigging.
What's Sardinia like for cruising, have you met any problems with the natives or are they friendly?