Jib sheets

Originally posted by headfry Are continuous jib sheets a better idea

I tend to use continuous sheets on the grounds that I find that an end is about 4 times more likley to get tangled on/in something.

I would say continuous sheets are a must on the 400 loose ends inside the boat will get caught and tangled and it also means the helm can get hold of them to adjust if the crew is having to concentrate on the kite.  I tie both end to the jib so there are no loose ends or knots inside the boat.  Also not going to come undone as they might if you just tie the two ends together.

I agree continous sheets are best.  Also good in a 400 is for the crew to tack with your back to the mast.  That way it keeps your weight forward and you don't have to duck so low since you bum fits nicely into the triangle formed by the kicker.  The jib sheets fall nicely to hand also. 

I know Headfry is probably not that interested in racing but if you are you still have to be able to tack facing forward because at the windward mark it is still required.  When tacking close to the mark you have to be able to tack, sit out hard (and slightly more aft than normal to keep the bow out)  for the bear away and then get the pole out and on completion of the bear away raise the kite.  To do that and not get completely dizzy requires a forward facing tack.  Incidentally another racing tip is don't sit on the thwart - I know its comfortable there but its too far aft unless it blowing a bit - in which case you should be sitting out!

Thanks a million (again) for the invalueable help.  Think we will go for cont. jib sheets.

Redback, yes we will have a go at racing, but we don't want to mess with the good guys and spoil their racing    so we have to advance our skills first   then we will  go for it!!   Still can't believe I have a boat, wanted this from the age of 11! 

Hope to have a go at rigging her over Easter (should be fun), and if weather is calm, then it's out on the water for us!     or in the water for us!! 

Wishing you all "happy sailing over the Easter hols."

yeah, I would say race. But it is upto personal choice. Also I see you have chosen cont. jib sheets.  if they are too much trouble they can always be cut into two.