[DuaneIsing]

Hi, mcain and Sailmc:

My opinion thus far was to avoid a furling main for many of the reasons commonly given. It was interesting to read your views. I had a question or two on what you wrote. Please comment.

Author: mcain
"Like everything else, don''t stress it beyond design parameters and you are OK. Be very careful about using them as a reefing system--when partially furled under heavy air, there is a lot of stress on them."

== You are reducing sail area by partial furling. So, how do you be careful about reefing with such a system? Please explain. ==

Author: Sailmc
"The added sail area is not the real advantage since most of it is higher up and only comes into play in very light air."

== Isn''t the wind speed usually significantly higher near the masthead than at the boom? I''m not sure why a roach on the upper portion of the sail wouldn''t be adding to your drive. Please explain. ==

BTW, we''ll be chartering a 37 Jeanneau in 2 weeks in the BVIs. The boat has an in-mast furler, so we''ll get to experience it for ourselves.

Thanks guys.
Duane