Sail Terminology

[Richard s/v Vive Hodie]

I have been sailing six years now and am still learning the "language". I am shopping for a used headsail. I understand hanks but I don't understand tape, foil, etc.What is the conventional wisdom when buying used sails? Should you just pay the price marked or are dealers willing to haggle.My foretriangle height is 42' and the base is 12'. I presently have a 150% Genoa. Itis too much sail above 12-15 knots wind. What is the shortest luff you would recommend for effective cruising?I sail a Hunter 31' sloop.

 

[Mike]

1. Call the manufacturer of your furling gear and ask them what tape size will fit your furler.2. If you buy used sails from a consignment shop, you can often make an offer which the shop will present to the owner. Some shops may not haggle. I would go to a local shop so you can look at the sail before you buy.3. You can get you sail dimensions from Hunter.4. When the wind gets too strong for you, since you have furling gear, why don't you simply reef (partially furl) the genoa 20-30%? You could turn the sail into a 130 or 120 easliy.Good Luck.