Hi Steve, I’m ordering a #4 for my J120 which I intend to sail from the Caribbean back to the States this spring. The boat is set up for roller furling on the headstay.
My question: Does it make any sense to put reinforcement in the #4 so it can be rolled up to storm jib size? I do have a storm jib, but think it would be easier to set the trysail and the #4 when the wind gets over 25 knots, and progressively roll up the #4 as the wind builds. Easier — but impractical?
I’d be most interested in your comments. Love your books (I’ve got ’em all). Cheers, David
Hi Dave: Tough question. I’d answer first by saying it depends on where you are sailing. If the sail could be set up right for heavy conditions, and if you were not likely to be using it for long periods, maybe OK (assuming of course the roller furling gear was bulletproof).
For sure it would be easier to just roll up the #4, assuming the shape was reasonable and that you had a proper lead for the jib. But those are big assumptions. Odds are you would need to start with a pretty high clew, and/or have a very long jib track or position on the rail to move the block to for storm jib size.
On the other hand, if you are going to be spending long periods reefed down to storm jib size, I think I would rather have a proper storm jib aboard, that could be set on its own stay. This would be especially the case where you will be using the system for beating (typically the ultimate heavy weather tactic).
I am going to forward your question to Dan Neri at North and see what Dan has to say. Regards – Steve
Posted by Steve Dashew (November 30, 1999)
