Mizzen Staysail

[aphil138]

I had to take my mizzen staysail in to the loft yesterday to repair a rip in the seam. The guys there were telling me that most staysails have a "wire" sewn into the luff. I have no clue (pardon the pun) how a proper saysail should be constructed. Of the Ketch owners out there who have one, how is your's constructed, wire or no wire? Also, what sail cloth is it made from, Dacron or Nylon - weight?
Thanks
Alan
Pearson 424
"UNABATED"

[DynaMeme]

Some do. The idea is to provide a sharp leading edge like a stay would.

Frequently they rust. If you decide you want this have them use a very low stretch line (like spectra) instead. You won't save much money over wire, but you won;t have the rust problem and the sail will stow more easily.

We've flown them with wires and without. We prefer with.

[aphil138]

the sail maker suggested something of a kevlar nature

[sailingdog]

I'd imagine it'd also help the sail hold its shape in heavier winds.

[DynaMeme]

If you race and have a racing budget, Kevlar would be a suitable choice. Kevlar is not fond of kinking or small loops. Any modern fiber with less stretch than the sail material will help. Spectra can be wound around your fingers without damage to the fibers.