Sheet size

[BobM]

I have a 30 foot S2 and typically fly a 135 on a roller furler. My question is, the sheet diameter seems to be pretty hefty...maybe 5/8...I found references that indicate I might be able to use as light as 7/16.

What does everyone think the trade off's are? Is a change to a lighter sheet worth considering, or should I continue to err on the side of caution with heavier? How heavy is too heavy? They might even be 9/16.

The larger diameter is probably a bit easier to bare hand, which I can just about get away with if I don't screw up my tacks. However, the extra weight can't help in light air, which I frequently have in the summer. Would it be worth a change if I am only dropping an 1/8th, but is it worth considering dropping from 5/8 to 7/16? The sheets are in decent shape.

Thanks,

BobM

 

[Alan]

BobM

Switching to 7/16" is a great idea. I have two sets of sheets on my boat. I use 7/16" spectra cored sheets for regular sailing and 1/4" light weight line for light air sailing. I also have 1/8" light air sheets for my spinnakers.

 

[Ross]

Bob, the change in weight per foot can be found in most any catalog. I would size the sheets for the heaviest winds in which I would fly that sail. If it starts to get skinny you can ease it a bit. Never any need to sail so hard as to start breaking things.

 

[Dave Groshong]

The 7/16 inch Samson XLS we offer here is more than adequate with a breaking strength of 5800lbs.

http://shop.sailboatowners.com/category.htm?fno=400&cat=1601

 

[BobM]

Thanks for the advice. Sometimes bigger is not necessarily better. I'll have to measure the exact diameter, but they really seem huge to me and I probably had 1/2 on my old 25 footer.

 

[tommays]

Well

I have found that while new line is stronger many of the jackets are stupid silppery mahing them useless without way to many wraps on the winch

So other than light air sheets i stick with the FAT line for function

 

[higgs]

I have always preferred the 1/2 inch as it is easier on the hands than smaller. I have used that size on my 24,32, and 34.

 

[Stu Jackson]

Consider your winches, too

We've had folks move down in size from 1/2 inch, and then find their self tailers wouldn't work so well, and required additional wraps. Other than your light air experience, if it ain't broke...

 

[orion]

One thing to consider is that a smaller diameter line will not grap as tightly in a self tailing winch.

 

[TimCup]

I'm with the majority-

I use 5/8 on the genny- it's just easier on the hands. And, like many, I use red and green on port and starboard to remind me when I'm stand on, or give way, with other sailboats. I just don't spend enough time out there anymore to keep it second nature!

cup