B & R rig

[steel345]

I am building a 35' steel boat for cruising and considering a B & R rig...The boat will be used in higher latitudes and some trades. The tiller is in the way of centering the backstay and I do not want to split it. The boat is new so why not have an alternative, possibly more efficient rig...Do not care about racing rules and like a lot of roach and small headsails..I am sure the boat can handle the loads...I am also considering a big roach main with a standard sloop or cutter that will set inside the backstay with the first reef in.
Thanks for looking
steel345

[Brion Toss]

Hello,
The B&R is a woefully underutilized rig. Among manufacturers, only Hunter makes use of it, though increasingly one sees near-B&R's, with sharply-swept spreaders. It could definitely work for your boat IF the hull is optimized in design for reaching; that spreader angle precludes efficient running. But on the right hull, you'll make better time broad reaching.
If your hull is more effective on a run, I'd revisit the idea of a split backstay. What is your objection to it? If you want to maximize your main, a big masthead crane, especially with a fractional rig, will fill the bill.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss