Within the next year or so I will replace the sails on my 27. I've read so many positive reports about full battens on the main that I am toying with this idea. Does anyone have some experience with fully battened mains on a Compac? Thanks
Nicolina,
Yes I had one made for my old 16 and currently am running a "self-modfied" loose foot on my 19.
They do work...better streamlined airflow across the sails, better sail shape, more adjustability of the outhaul for wind speed.
On the 16 it was a huge difference but was replacing really old sails so anything would have worked better. On the 19 by modifying it I didn't notice any major difference right away. But after playing with adjustments a bit I've come to a similar conclusion than Hideaway. Check out his post on this (I think it's in the 23 section). Over the last 2 months of so I'm been experimenting with it. It makes a difference compared to standard bolt rope.
If/when I buy a new main I'll definitely be going with loose footed. Do a google search on loose footed main and read about it more before deciding.
Nicolina - not sure of the subject titles, but I have posted extensively on the advantages of the full battened loose footed main, as well as what I consider to be the optimum sail model for our Com Pac designs.
As verified by Salty 19, new sails are usually a real performance plus on any boat. The Com Pacs come with sails that are cut pretty deep in keeping with the boat design performance parameters, but in my opinion that's like a de-tuned motor - you can do better.
My new main and jib were purchased through Dirk at National sails. He understands the customer requirements, and delivers up to expectations with above average quality at below average cost. I would encourage you to consult with him before making your purchase decision. One note: you may need to acquire a tapered batten for the top position. At the time I purchased my sails only constant thickness battens were available through National, but were too stiff to allow shape at the top of the main.
Maybe Santa will be treat you - new sails are better than two front teeth.
Ron
I just put (mid season) my new sails on my CP16, with the main being a full batten design, (also added new Genny and a light air drifter). Since my old sails were original, like Salty's comment, anything would have been an improvement. The cost difference for the full bats wasn't all that much, and I got my sails from Dirk at National Sails for 20 - 25% cheaper than the least expensive competitive bid.
To be PERFECTLY honest, the full battens just look so COOL, that the cost was worth it just for that! ;-) Any boost in performance is a welcomed bonus, but let's face it, these boats aren't gonna' be speedy no matter what you hang from the poles.
The one down side is that you have to tension the battens and tie them off when you raise the sail, and then release them when you drop and furl the sail. I don't leave them tight when not in use.