Backup Forestay

[Bob23]

   Not to sound like I know everything, which I do, but isn't this overkill? First off, the Compac standing rigging is built stronger than it has to be. 5/32" is a pretty beefy rig for a 23 and I think it's the same for the 19's. Second, a regular rigging inspection and/or replacement should be the norm. This winter, I removed all the rigging, did a very close visual inspection and reinstalled everything back in the spring. It's in good shape but it may be original (1985) and should be replaced...maybe this coming winter.
   My boat's been out on her mooring in 60mph+ winds and everything stayed up. That being said, if I'm ever in that situation again, I'll rig a halyard as a back-up forestay.
   In the recent issue of "Good Old Boat" magazine, there is a good article on a forestay replacement while the boat was in the water in a remote anchorage. Give it a read. Makes me want to swithch everything over to Sta-loc when I re-rig.
Bob23...I really don't know anything, let alone everything!!!!!

[Salty19]

More of an insurance policy, Bob.  Redundant equipment.  Same concept as using both a manual and electric bilge pump.  Or storing an extra sail on board.  Or keeping a few extra sailstops, shackles, tools and lines aboard.    Just in case.

Didn't you find your forestay pin w/o cotter when hauling last year?  That is just scary. If it fell out, a backup would save your hyde.

Don't worry, I'm refraining from installing a backup motor, mast, admiral and hull.