Setting up your rigging to suit your boat is paramount in achieving peak performance from your sails. On Ask Precision Sails we had a question from customer Jim who wants to know;

“Should I add a topping lift to my boat? And if so how do I rig it up?”

First of all what is a topping lift? A topping lift is a device which helps lift the boom and alleviate downward force.  It usually connects at the end of the boom.

Jim was having trouble with his new vessel as it doesn’t currently have a topping lift set up. He is finding the boom drops down once he lowers the mainsail.

So, yes, a topping lift is something that will defiantly help to solve this problem. There are two common ways that this can be rigged depending on the size of the vessel and the size of the boom.

Option 1

For smaller vessels with smaller booms, an additional line is run from the backstay that runs down on an angle to the end of the boom. This is a fixed option, set to hold the boom up when the sail is lowered but not tight enough that it pulls the boom up when the sail is raised.

This option is only suited to smaller vessels.

Option 2

The preferred method, and a common rigging format for larger vessels, is using a block or shiv built into the top of the mast to run a line for your topping lift that can be easily adjusted. The topping lift line will run from the end of the boom directly to the block at the top of the mast and then down the mast to either the base of the mast or to the cockpit to a cleat- ideal for easy and safe adjustments whilst sailing.

It is important to note that with an adjustable topping lift it is essential that this line is released once the mainsail is hoisted, allowing the sail to pull taut. In this position, the mainsail can achieve an effective shape and can be trimmed nicely for sailing at different points of sail. The topping lift will only need to be tightened again if you are preparing to reef the sails or once you are preparing to lower the mainsail, once again taking the pressure off the sail and taking the weight of the boom.

If you need a new sail to work with your topping lift, give us a call at 1-888-958-5638 or request a quote with the button below!

Single-handed sailing can be euphoric, skipping over the water under your own steam, with nobody to worry about but yourself. But it isn’t always this easy. On Ask Precision Sails this week Darryl gives us some all-around tips and tricks for single-handed sailing practices.

“The number one rule for successful single-handed sailing is preparation, more preparation, and then even more preparation.”

Boat Preparation

Prior preparations is paramount with any single-handed sailing excursion you partake in. Nothing is more critical than preparing your vessel to suit every situation when sailing single-handed. It goes without saying that all your systems and rigging should be inspected and maintained BEFORE you set out on the water. You will be solely relying on all these systems whilst you are sailing and they all need to be in great condition and in good working order.

With regards to rigging it is best to set up systems that are easy to use and ideally run back to the safety of the cockpit. Systems like furling headsails are a great idea as they are easy to handle and reduce the need to go up on deck to make sail adjustments, allowing to furl and adjust sails directly from the cockpit if the wind picks up. For the times that you do have to go up on deck, it is essential that you have secure clip in points on the deck, so you can tether yourself. Diligently tethering yourself to an anchor point, every time you head up on deck, no matter the conditions, greatly increases your safety aboard.

The other system you might like to consider is the option to install an autopilot. Once a heading is selected this frees up your abilities to make sail adjustments, concentrate on watch, check the charts, or even just an opportunity to use the bathroom or have a bite to eat. Utilizing modern mechanics to make life aboard much easier and manageable with only one set of hands.

Personal Preparations

Practicing sailing tactics and basic sailing maneuvers is a great way to establish a set of processes of how it can be done the most efficiently and in a way that feels right for you. To then continually practice these processes will mean if a quick-changing weather pattern does come along or a problem arises you already have a pre-prepared game plan of how to tackle the situation and feel confident in your abilities.

Medical Preparations

All vessels should have a comprehensive first-aid kit and every captain should know how to use all the items inside, no matter how many people are on board. A fully stocked kit in a handy location will mean you are ready for any unexpected accident that might occur.

There are a number of sea safety courses that can teach you some valuable skills in basic first aid practices as well as techniques that are suitable for single-handed sailors too.

Communication Preparations

You might be setting out for a solo passage but it is still very important to check in with someone ashore to let them know your intended route and estimated time frame. Then having access to some form of communication whilst you are underway in case any changes arise to your planned route. By simply letting a family member or friend know your plan will ensure that someone is keeping an eye on your situation. If things do change and they don’t hear from you within the specified time frames they know when it is sensible to send out emergency assistance.

These are only but a few of the key tips and tricks to consider when attempting a single-handed sail. For more, watch here!

Once you have invested in a new set of sails you are likely going to want to keep them looking clean, crisp and fresh for as long as possible. A common problem that most of us face in dealing with mold and mildew if you live in a damp or humid environment. On Ask Precision Sails we had Bob Hudson ask:

"How susceptible is sailcloth to mildew? I am based in the southwest of the UK and it tends to be a bit damp here."

With two common sail fabrics Dacron and laminate, mildew and mold will show up differently in both so let’s take a look at each:

Dacron

Typically, a Dacron sail is a single sheet of woven material. When a Dacron sail is used as a furling headsail, wrapped tightly in a moist environment you certainly can experience some mildew due to the limited airflow around the fabric. For this reason, it is advisable if you plan to leave the boat for more than a few months, you should consider taking down your sails, ensure they are well dried and store them in out of the weather to prolong their life. Not only will this stop any mold and mildew but it will also eliminate any unnecessary UV exposure to your sail treads.

Laminate

Laminate sails come in many shapes and forms. Two common types are the ones with clear films on either side and also cruising taffeta. Unfortunately, both forms of laminate are at risk of mildew and mold, particularly if there are cracks in the film. Once mildew penetrates the inner layer it is very difficult to manage and can spread quickly if left to deteriorate.

Again, it is best to dry and store these sails if you plan to take some time off the boat for any great length of time. Just ensure when you are flaking the sails that you take care not to bend and crack the outer layers when folding too tightly. Often furling these sails can be a more effective way to store and protect them.

Simply due to the overall cost of laminate, it is advisable to choose Dacron sails for wet or humid environments as they tend to wear better in these environments if adequate care is upheld.

If you need to clean your sails, we also have a blog which outlines how to clean your sails visit it here.

If you are interested in getting some new sails for your boat, go ahead and click the button below and request a quote!

We all want to find that sweet spot in the right size for our next new headsail, a place where we can maximize power without overpowering the vessel. On Ask Precision Sails Darryl has this question from customer Jenny;

In-case you don't know what LP is: LP is the acronym for luff perpendicular, it is the measurement from the clew corner to the luff, in a straight, perpendicular line at the shortest point (see red line with arrows in picture below). The LP the relative distance of your boats J rig measurement to the length of the sails LP represented as a percentage.

Each vessel is unique in its set up and how it is rigged but what will also play an important role in the overall decision of selecting a new headsail is what are your plans for the boat, where will you be sailing and what might the ‘normal conditions’ might look like for this area. So, let’s take a look at each of these factors and how this might assist in determining the size of your new headsail;

Sailing Destinations and Conditions

Depending on your regular cruising grounds will certainly play a big part in determining your sail LP. If you often take your boat out to similar sailing areas, for example out of San Francisco where winds are consistently blowing or maybe you might be in a light wind area like Sydney in BC, both of these regular sailing conditions will require different sails to accommodate these conditions. For light wind areas, it might be possible to safely increase the sail LP whilst in high wind areas you might consider reducing this.

Sailing Type

With racing, you are likely going to have different requirements of your boat and its sails to say, a cruiser or weekend sailor. For the majority of cruisers and weekend sailors, you are looking for sails that are simple, safe and flexible for regular sailing conditions. For many cruisers, they opt for an all-around furling headsail, something that is normally around 135% LP. This is a really flexible size for most moderate sailing conditions. When the winds pick up it is easy to reef it down and will still hold a nice shape, and then easily furl it back out once the winds reduce.

Vessel Setup

Is it a masthead or is it a fractionally rigged boat? The balance of sails between the mainsail and the head sails are crucial factors in determining the sail LP. This is where sail designers often step in to fine-tune the specs so that you achieve a nice balance between your mainsail and headsail, a set up that the boat was designed to uphold.

Based on your track position, furling system and clew heights these points might restrict the overall size of your headsail as well. For example, with your furling system consider how this might work with the tack? You might need to consider installing a pennant or a spacer to ensure the sails work effectively in your existing rigging set up.

With the clew, where does this sit in relation to the clew car or the track or rail? If you have a masthead rig and are looking into a 150% LP but the position of your blocks and track only allow for 135% you will need to consider either opting for a smaller sail or installing a new track farther aft.

These are just common considerations, and as mentioned it is always advisable to have a chat with your sail maker and designer so that they can give you tailored advice on your own personal situation and what sail configuration will work best for your boat.

If you need a headsail for your boat. Please request a quote with the button below, and we'll send you one quickly! Our designers will help you pick the best headsail LP% for your specific applications.

Purchasing new sails is always a big decision and one that should be a calculated and considered choice. On this episode of Ask Precision Sails Darryl answers one of our more commonly asked questions:

“Should I upgrade to a laminate sail?”

So let’s answer it!

There are a few things to consider when thinking about upgrading to laminate sails. The obvious question is, how performance-orientated are you? Are you that sailor who always just has to gain that extra ½ a knot, trimming and adjusting the sails to perfection? Are you a racer or a cruiser?

Recognize what it is you want to achieve with your boat and how important the overall performance is to the satisfaction of you and your crew.

Laminate Vs Dacron Sails

The main difference you will see between a Dacron and a laminate sail is in the shape of your sails when you tack and how this impacts on the performance of the maneuver. With a Dacron sail, you will notice when the breeze is first captured it will likely expand the sail, stretch the fibers, and then it will move back into shape. This effect will reduce your overall performance out of the tack and your speed out of the maneuver. A laminate sail is a very hard-hitting construction and doesn’t adjust as much through the change. So, compared to Dacron sails you can expect more speed out of your tack, therefore all-around better performance. But this added performance often comes with a higher price point.

Cruising Laminate Construction

If you are a cruiser that is conscious about performance there is now a wide range of cruise laminates on offer. Most are constructed with a taffeta of each side, sandwiched around a fiber in the middle. That central fiber can be one of many; polyester, Technora or carbon. Each composite has varying qualities and will suit different purposes, making it far easier than ever before to tailor your new sails to your sailing ambitions.

Lifespan Of Sails?

Typically the lifespan of a set of Dacron sails will be around 10 years, whereas a set of laminate sails will likely be less, somewhere between 5-7 years.

What Should Cruisers Look For In A Laminated Sail?

The price point has to feel right for you. So, if there is a large difference in price between Dacron and laminate sails, then a set of high-quality Dacron sails are still going to satisfy your needs for the long term.

Why Choose A Dacron Sail?

Most cruisers are most likely going to be focused on covering longer distances and so the longevity of the sail is a higher priority than, say, the performance out of a tack.

Dacron is a tried and tested product that has been used successfully for cruising for many years. Sure, Dacron will lose a little bit of shape over its lifespan, but most people are satisfied with these strong and sturdy set of sails that are durable and going to last the distance whilst cruising.

If you're in the market for a new Dacron, or laminate sail please don't hesitate, and request a quote with the button below. We will provide you with a quote quickly!

Batten Configuration For Performance Cruising

We all want to achieve peak performance from our sails and our recent question on Ask Precision Sails was regarding the best batten configuration for performance cruising.

“Full battens vs partial battens, what is the best option for overall performance?”

First of all, it is important to consider the size of your vessel and the roach that you have in your mainsail, this will ultimately determine which batten configuration will work best for you.

Typically, performance cruising and club racing vessels will use a mixture of both full and partial battens. Using at least two full battens at the top of the sail will help to hold the shape, holding up the leech and holding out the roach. This extra rigidity will strengthen the overall shape but will also help to minimize too much flogging of the sail.

Then, by using some partial battens lower down in the sail will mean that it is far easier to make adjustments with either the Cunningham or the flattener, refining and fine-tuning the shape of the lower part of the sail when trimming. An added bonus of partial battens in the lower section of the sail will also mean reefing the sails will be easier and neater, allowing for more flexibility to flake the sail below the reefed points.

So, a mixture of full and partial battens for the win!

If you are looking for a performance cruising sail or any type, feel free to request a quote and we will send you one quickly!

On this episode of Ask Precision Sails, Dan Campbell on Facebook he asked us a question “What are the wind specs for an asymmetric spinnaker?”

Well that is a good question, and we’re glad you asked it.

It’s also a tough question.There are a lot of different types of spinnakers. Each has their own wind specs which they can perform best in. To see a variety of spinnakers and their wind specifications visit our in-depth blog post here. If you’re more interested in how to use a spinnaker, or topics like Rigging, Trimming, or Gybing, visit our blog here.

Let's Start By Discussing The A2 Spinnaker.

A code 2 asymmetrical spinnaker (A2) is an All Purpose / Medium running sail. It is designed with a long luff and big, girthy mid. It is a stable spinnaker capable of sailing the deepest of angles. It is normally manufactured from light 3 / 4 ounce to medium 1.5 ounce weight spinnaker cloth to help with lower apparent wind speeds. The apparent wind angle a code 2 asymmetrical spinnaker operates in is 115 - 160 degrees. It’s operational apparent wind speed is between 8 and 20 knots.

To give you a little more context a heavy reacher (A5) or code 5 asymmetrical spinnaker operates in a 85 - 130 Apparent Wind Angle between 16 - 28 knots of apparent wind speed. This sail has a more flat shape with a more solid and straight luff. It can be used at higher wind speeds at reaching angles.

For further context, our Code 1 (A1) asymmetrical spinnaker, which is a light air sail for reaching angles, works in 60 - 105 degrees of apparent wind, at 3 - 12 knots of apparent wind speed.

Each series of spinnaker has its different uses. You really need to think about the areas you sail in and take them into account when making the decision on getting a new sail for your inventory.

These speeds are more related to the standard spinnaker cloths we offer. You can always get into higher-end cloths like the amazing Bainbridge Air X cloth, but you do have to pay a little bit extra for that. These more premium clothes offer slightly better angles and speed allowances. To view our spinnaker cloth options visit our sail cloth info page here.

Precision Sails Customization.

When you work with one of our designers here at Precision Sails, you can talk to them about the shoulders and depth of the sail to really try and nail down what you're looking for out of a sail. If you give them some very specific details, perhaps, I want to be able to point in X degree wind angle in Y knots of wind. Or maybe, you’ve got a big long distance run that you know you’re going to do this Spring and you want to be ready for that. You know the winds usually are coming north from the north.

If you give your designer information like that, they can tailor fit the spinnaker to exactly what you're looking for. That's the really good part of buying a sail from Precision Sails.If you want to actually talk to the designer just pick up the phone and they'll go through all the details with you and just tailor fit it and best as they can.

If you need or want to add a spinnaker to your sail inventory, please request a quote with the button below and we’ll reach out shortly!

On This Episode of Ask Precision Sails, Darryl answered a question from Bernard. He asked

“What is the best way to use the piece of Velcro for the clew that came with the sail?”

This actually seems to be quite a common question. One of our YouTube Partners Nike from WhiteSpotPirates (checkout her partner page here) also didn’t know what it was for when we gave her a new mainsail for her boat Karl. See the conversation she had with a Facebook commenter below!

You can see what they are referring to in this photo - the small circle object on the boom in the bottom left of the picture.

We actually supply a Velcro strap with each mainsail! It has a couple of functions. The first is for when you're sailing in heavy winds or stormy weather. You can wrap it through your clew and around your boom for extra stability and strength. Another is when you aren't using a clew slug, you can simply use the Velcro strap and make quick adjustments to the tension of the sail.

The clew of the mainsail often has a slug, or it has a car on the boom. Some boats only use a Velcro strap. Even if you have an attachment method besides the Velcro strap, it's a really good idea to put the Velcro strap on. It adds a little peace of mind, from the additional strength and stability it provides.

How To Use The Velcro Boom Strap:

So what you'll see on the Velcro strap is that there is the male and female side of Velcro and then on the inside there's actual webbing and that's sewn together with zigzag stitching.

So what you would normally do if you're going to use your strap is you're gonna go put the one end right through the clew ring and then gonna wrap the strap around the boom. Just keep wrapping it until you can’t wrap it anymore! That is what's going to hold the clew down to the boom. You’ll end up with a couple layers on each other with the strap. As the clew pulls the strap will stay tight around the boom.

Also With The Velcro Strap:

You can set the clew a little bit higher if you'd like or a little bit lower; it depends on how much slack you make the strap have. Sometimes the strap will go on an angle and get snagged along the boom but all you have to do is push it a bit and it will move into the proper position.

It’s also perfectly fine to cut the length of the strap, they are usually a bit long. Just make sure to melt the ends after cutting, you're going to cut Velcro and webbing, you don’t want that to fray.

Welcome back to Ask Precision Sails! Arthur asked a really good question after receiving our quote. He noticed that we have different levels of Dacron sails with different levels of qualities. He asked “Should we put an offshore reinforcement package on the lower quality Dacrons or is that something that you just put on the better quality sail cloth?”

Well, it's completely up to the sailor. When it comes to the quality of Dacron sails, the better the quality (like the 400 and 500 series we offer) the longer they're going to hold sail shape and the more resistance they have to UV damage from the sun. This level of Dacron sails will last you longer. Click here to see all the sail cloth we offer!

Making the choice to reinforce a sail with our offshore reinforcement package is more about the wind conditions you're going to be in. Offshore sailors often find themselves in a position where they're in 20 to 40 knots of wind and can't get out of it. This is where an offshore package will shine. You won't have to worry about the sail bursting at the seams. The package we offer has double tapes along the leech, luff, and foot. Wider seams, leech seam wedgies, reef reinforcement belts, and upgraded hardware. Watch the video below to see these features in more detail!

So, if you're if you've got a smaller boat and you like to push the limits, let's say, in the great lakes where you can get into 30 or 40 knots of wind and you plan keeping the boat up to five or six more years then the lower quality Dacron sails are absolutely fine for those applications and yes reinforcing them for heavier wind conditions makes a ton of sense!

If you’re interested in getting a sail with an offshore package for yourself, request a quote below!

Request Sail Quote

On this episode of Ask Precision Sails Matt, from MJ Sailing (One of our YouTube Partners) discusses where a preventer should be installed along the boom.

First Of All, What Is A Boom Preventer?

A boom preventer is a rigging system which prevents the booms ability to move past the cockpit when any accidental jibing or tacking action occurs. It works by restricting the range that your boom can swing.

This is important to help prevent damage to your vessel, or harm to your crew. You don't want your boom swinging back and forth from an unexpected gust of wind taking off your crew mates heads and knocking them overboard!

A boom preventer mechanism is typically more important for downwind sailing because of the smaller differences in true wind to apparent wind speeds. An unexpected change in wind speed or direction, without a boom preventer, can allow the boom to quickly move from side to side in a violent matter.

Boom preventers can also be useful for “set it and forget it” sailors or ones that are doing long voyages with not as many tacking/jibing maneuvers.

Where Should I Rig My Boom Preventer?

Many sailors install their Boom preventer at the mid point of their Boom. This can create an “hard spot” midway along the boom and a lever arm after, this isn’t as efficient when transferring the forces into the boom preventer. A better position is to attach the boom preventer to the end of your boom. This puts all those jibing and tacking forces onto the preventer and doesn't distribute the force back along the boom. While each sailor has a unique approach, Matt and Jessica pull from their experience from sailing offshore and recommend this method of installation.

If you have other questions email us at info@precisionsailloft.com or call us at 1-888-958-5638