[k7cej]

For the last 15 years I have used jib sheets, one piece with a loop in the middle, ring hitched onto the clew on our Outbound 44 Sequoia. For the 660 sq. ft. genoa, I use 5/8" Regatta braid with a somewhat awkward lock spliced loop; for the 350 sq. ft. staysail, 5/8" Sta-set double braid with a 4" stitched section. Both have worked fine in all conditions, although the ring hitch pulls very tight on the clew ring--it takes 15 minutes with a spike to remove it.

Since I am redoing the lines, I am curious as to the adequacy of the stitched loop. I strongly suspect the load on the stitched joint is less than 100% of the sheet tension, due to the ring hitch. But does anyone know:
1. the strength reduction for this large line ring-hitched to a 3/8" diameter ss ring?
2. the amount of load transferred into the unloaded sheet that must be supported by the stitched joint?

For what it is worth, I do not plan to lock splice the new Regatta braid lines, but plan to stitch them as well, as the old line showed a fair amount of wear at the lock splice where the line exits the splice. (I could, of course, cut the new line in two, splice eyes, and use a soft shackle to connect, and although this would be easy to remove, it seems less secure.)

All thoughts appreciated
Craig