Sail quotes puzzle

[Leighb]

Hi,
Forgive my ignorance, but I am puzzled by the variation in sail cloth weight being quoted by sailmakers for new furling main & genoa for my boat.
Weights vary from 6.3oz up to 8.25oz
Some state the make/type of cloth, and some say UK or US after the weight.
What is the difference between US & UK, how do I compare them, and are the different brand names just that? i.e. really the same stuff from different outlets?
The price variation is considerable most expensive is 56% more than the cheapest!
How does one choose?
They are all - except the very most expensive- local East Coast makers.

 

[asj1]

The main difference will be US vs Uk . US 7oz equals 9oz Uk.

 

[Twister_Ken]

There can be a large variation in cloth quality - you really need to get like for like quotes.

Bainbridge's http://www.sailcloth.com/ is a good place to start

 

[Leighb]

[ QUOTE ]
The main difference will be US vs Uk . US 7oz equals 9oz Uk.

[/ QUOTE ]

Thanks, that gives me a starting place for comparison.

I guess in the end it comes down to which sailmaker do you think will produce a good sail, but I feel that under weight sails although cheaper do not last as long and may be costly in the long run.

 

[Sans Bateau]

Leigh

I have just gone down the very same route. However what suits me and my boat may not suit yours.

As already stated UK and US oz are different. Yes a lighter but also cheaper in quality sail cloth will not last. New boats often come with sails that go in the bin after a few seasons, cos they are made using cheap material, you wont want that.

After trawling SIBS, I decided that I wanted a local sailmaker that I could talk to and discuss what I want, let him make suggestions and then decide on the exact spec. Whats more the final quote from my 'local' was no more than some of the big national lofts. So that's where my order has gone.