[bwindrope]

Thanks for your input Brion. I like the gooseneck idea and pondered it as an option. It would mean attaching the snap shackle for the reef to the same pin as the normal tack cringle. Would you have two shackles handy for each reef, or one does it? I do have a Cunningham cringle already in my main but no rigging to use it. Will take that advice too.

Still have that question about mast twisting while reefed and whether it is OK?

Have to say, I asked at the Friday Harbor library whether they had or could get copies of your rig tuning video. Didn't have it, and couldn't even get it via inter library loan, which is unusual. After I explained to the librarian about the value of the series to sailors like me, she ordered a copy of the entire series, including four or five DVD's, for our local library. I was the first to get to check them out, and wow, thank you for producing such a clear and informative video series. Even a good dose of your humor. I, for one, appreciate it very much.

Had my main up at the dock yesterday, adjusting and practicing my reefing procedures, when I got slammed by 30-40 knot gusts of wind from out of nowhere. Let me tell you, it was about as realistic as possible considering I was tied to the dock!!! Learned a lot about the forces involved and am happy to say that even with high winds and no ability to get the wind out of the main very well, I was still able to reef both reefs without much trouble. The blocks and cheekblocks and all that really do their job.

Cheers to all,