Food for Thought

Posted By: John/Illinois
Date: 12/29/07 9:34a.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: Mainsail Battens (Bob Stewart)

Bob, I understand your point but remaine unsure due to the large body of conflicting info. I find in books and articles on the subject. My initial thought was to use lighter tapered battens for light air so as not to over power the sail shape at the top thus allowing the use of traveler, main sheet, outhaul, etc. to effect shape especially off the wind. I would then use the heavier set ( tapered )for heavier air, being careful again not to dictate shape due to overly stiff battens, but to again use the normal shaping tools for adjustablity. My research ( thus far ) suggests that it is easy to go too stiff an in doing so greatly reduce the ability to control shape. Yes, a set at 5/8" tapered would be acceptable for the lighter set. Since asking this initial question, I have continued to seek a SOURCE FOR TAPERED STOCK, but have been unsuccessful. I have been attempting to contact Catalina Direct for direction. They have been very helpful in the past however with their new tech line, you have to be very lucky to get though since they will no longer take a message or return a call. I have tryed about 10 times over the last 4 days. Your thoughts and resources leads are greatly appreciated.