I use a snap schackle like RF6240 from ronstan (search for RF6240 on their website--it's not the only one that will work). Very easy to use, secure, and hard to lose overboard. I use the second small hole for the headstay. I believe there is a reason for that, but I can't remember now what it is. tom 2008/2/18 bill safford <free_willy62@hotmail.com>:
What is the cleanest, most straight-forward way to attach a hanked on headsail to a late model M17? The headstay fitting is fabricated SS rather than the earlier cast aluminum. The headstay fitting has three equal distance holes (I haven't measured the diameter of the holes). I use the forward most hole for the headstay. I'm thinking a simple "D" shackle would do, but I can't find the exact one. Would a long "D" shackle be better than standard? I hate the idea of fumbling around with a "D" shackle on the foredeck--then plop into the water. Ideas/advice?
Bill
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