Aside from the ones you've mentioned, the biggest advantage a roller-furled headsail gives you is the ability to shorten sail when the wind blows up just by pulling a cord in the cockpit.
True, sail shape is compromised.. but on a balmy night with guests on board, the party set don't care to have to put down their beer and excuse themselves from deep conversation just to go forward and change the
jib.
One popular option is a roller-furler on your inner forestay. Several advantages:
1. You can
rig headsails like you're accustomed to.
2. The
furler doesn't get in the way of the
anchor chain.
3. If you're out with guests and can't be bothered with a full headsail, you can unfurl the staysail with a pull of the sheet..
Happy sailing!
