Jib only sailing

[Al Peters]

Need feedback: Is sailing with jib only OK?I've been told that it puts too much strain on the mast, don't do it. Also, I've been told that's perfectly fine by old experienced blue water cruiser. He sails jib only 80% of the time (including motor sailing) with jib only on his Catalina 30.WHO TO BELIEVE? Thanx, Al

 

[Tim]

I think so

I do it a lot when I am sailing down wind, especially in light airs. I can't see how it can put too much strain on the mast with jib only. If sailing down wind with both jib and main both will be pushing forward with at least twice the force of jib alone.It seems to me a good way to go down wind especially, no chance of an accidental jibe.

 

[Bob]

Actually...

When you have the main up, the mainsheet is helping to support the mast. Since it is attached behind the mast, that support directed rearward. The mainsail is pushing forward, true, mostly through the clew of the sail, but the mainsheet is balancing that pull and even taking some of the strain from the backstay.