[BertV]

So here''s a novel idea. We had to replace our "lifelines" on a 30 ft boat. The retail price to have this done professionally by a rigger was in the area of $800+. This is a double lifeline setup with single gates at the cockpit. My question is (and was), what are we expecting lifelines to do for us. On a typical 25 - 30 ft sailboat, they are at just the right height (just below te knees) to trip you are you are on your way over the side! The stainless steel stantions will break off at the rail or break out of the deck if you hit them hard enough. We replaced our "lifelines" with 3/8ths dacron line with snap shackles for the gates. Yes, there is more stretch. We do not depend on the "lifelines" to keep us on deck or rest against them at anchor. If it gets rough, the harnesses go on and jacklines are rigged on both sides of the boat along the cabin trunk, a much safer way to go anyway (you should NEVER rig your harness to the lifelines, a great way to get dragged for miles). The whole setup cost less than $150 and there is no corrosion. The dacron is easier on the hands as well as looking better (we went with black lines). Just food for thought. I suspect I will be soundly critizied by all sorts!!