scooper/cruising chute - help please

[fjweaver]

We’ve got a new scooper/cruising chute on our Ranger 265 – I haven’t used one before so before I make an idiot of myself would like some advice.

I guess you can reach with it but realistically what angle/point of wind can you get round to – and also what strength of wind can it be used in.

At the moment there is only one sheet attached so doesn’t appear that you can gybe without bringing the single sheet from one side, in front of the mast and back around to the other side – or can I attach a second sheet as you would a jib? Would you need someone at the bow to help ease it over without snagging?

thanks
Frank


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[Gunfleet]

I use mine with one sheet because the bloke who sold it to me said 'you only use one sheet'! I use it like a giant light genoa. I don't very often bother with the pole and I do always use a sock to set it up, but then I most often sail alone. The sail doesn't work for anything further forward than a broad reach. If running I usually reef the main, though I suppose you could put a preventer on the boom. And that's about it.

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[brianhumber]

The harder you are on the wind the more heeling moment and less and less point in using it. I take mine down at about 50 apparent unless drifting along at less than 2/3 knots wind.
You can attach two sheets but be very careful of snagging/ripping it as you tack. Not worth the expense unless racing methinks.

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[ditchcrawler]

I use a scooper on my 265,& in light airs it can be sheeted in very tightly & used almost as a genoa.I have used mine in a force 4 with the wind abaft the beam,but it is better in f1-3.I use 2 sheets but have them twice the length of the boat,& it is better to help it round the forestay.I also use a snuffer which makes life very easy.I sometimes goosewing it with a pole,but you need a reasonable amount of wind to keep the pole up as I do not have a pole uphaul.Job for next year.You will have some good fun with it

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