sheet length for a grampian 26 clarification

[fred1diver]

hey everyone, just getting ready to change the running rigging on Cool Whip and I'm using the rigging calculator on this site but I'm confused about the sheet length, it says 42ft but I must specify if I want a pair, so am I understanding it correctly that if I want two sheets I need 2 sheet 21ft long? or am I missing something

 

[dlochner]

Sheet length rule of thumbs:

Jib sheets: 1.5 x boat length for each side

Spin sheets: 2x boat length for each side

So for a Grampian 26 you would want the jib sheet to be 26 + 13 = 39' for each side. Some folks prefer to use one continuous sheet and attach it to the jib with a cow hitch. This works best if you have roller furling and don't remove the jib sheets each time you sail.

 

[Phil Herring]

Hi Fred, sheets are generally LOA x 1.5, and if you have a shackle added that would account for a couple of extra feet. So the 42' length is one sheet -- if you want a pair just enter a quantity of 2.

 

[dlochner]

About that shackle. It makes attaching the sheets to the jib quick and easy, however it adds a lot of weight to the clew which will adversely affect your light air performance, especially off the wind.

That, and they really hurt when you get whacked in the head with one on a tack.

 

[fred1diver]

thanks everyone, I though 21ft would be short lol
IF I use a shackle it will be a soft shackle, hurts less lol

 

[Joe]

Don't use a shackle on jib sheets (or genoa sheets, either). Tie on with a bowline.