Profurl Vs. Schaefer Furling Gear

[Brian Duff]

it depends on your intended use.

for high halyard loads or real heavy use , the furlex halyard swivel design provides a more smooth turning furler by pressing the loads inside the edge of the bearing race, allowing all bearings to help out, instead of just the ones on the loaded area. also the bearing are stainless steel which will remain round longer than the plastic balls in some other units (thats profurls argument for the hardened steel bearings they use) . granted, the stainless steel bearing need to be kept greased to work well. furlex also provides a 'one turn' tack swivel for even better reefed shape.

another benefit of the furlex design is the that joint extrusions are held together with an aluminum tab that has two raised bosses to engage each extrusion, so no dissimiliar metals or chance for fasteners to back out. all in all they have done a good job to isolate dissimilar metals, or use similiar metals where possible

another benifit of the furlex is the plastic bushings that are lining the forestay the entire length without any vertical seams in them. good stuff.

I sound like a selden salesman here -

the harken cruising esp is your best value right now , if quality for $$ and basic general functions are your requirements. go with the furlex if you need the ultimate furler. umm, I do not have expirience with any other than the Harken, Schaefer, Hood, Goiot, Facnor, Profurl, Furlex and CDI brand furlers, so cant make recommendations outside those (I know reckman is reputed to make a good furler, as is bamar )