Dutchman reefing/flaking vs. lazy jacks

[Dave Freeman]

any comments on using a Dutchman system on the main vs. lazy jacks or other systems? I'm considering a dutchman to ease single handed sailing on a Hunter 29.5

 

[Andy Falls]

Lazy, Jack

We have Lazyjacks on our 29.5. I feel secure enough with the system that I no longer mess with the topping lift. I sailed on other boats with the Dutchmen and it flakes nicely, but seems (pardon the pun) a little flakey as in light. Jacks can also be used to lift the boom in light air, or lift it way out of the way while at anchor

 

[Bob Fuller]

Dutchman

I converted mine to a Type C(Block at the boom and at the halyard attachment), and after getting the adjustment right, find it does a great job. I doubt any system will be perfect, but get input from those who have each type.

 

[Capt. Marc]

Jacks and Flakes

My Columbia 26 has lazy jacks, my new Beneteau 350 has Dutchman Flaking. I'm very happy with the Dutchman, but that boat is also 26 years younger!I do not know if being a larger boat makes a difference, but I prefer the "Flakes".I built the Lazy Jack System with a couple of blocks hung from the spreaders, some line and padeyes added to the bottom of the boom to hold the line in place.(very economical, and no cutting on the sail)Good Luck,Marc

 

[Bil Thomas Feng Shui]

Dutchman

Our 33.5 has dutchman sail flaking. I love it. After the sail was trained to the flake it drops straight down and a quick tug to straighten. It is also great when reefing as it controls the sail when being dropped. It is also unobtrusive.The best part of the dutchman is the comments from other sailor about how neat our sails are flaked when coming in off the water!

 

[steven f.]

dutchman

We went with the Dutchman system while ordering our new main sail. I would not go with the Dutchman system on anything but a new sail, once the sail was "trained" it works great. One thing I haven't done, yet, is to install a running topping lift, it's on my list of things to do. It reefs great, much easier than the conventional way.