The CDI is roller-reefing. To me, furlers that simply furl, and do not reef, don't seem to be worth the expense: The advantage of having a furling headsail was, for me, the flexibility of sizing it from loin-cloth to 100+ percent, from the safety of the cockpit . . . ----- Original Message ----- From: <Wilsometer@aol.com> To: <montgomery_boats@mailman.xmission.com> Sent: Saturday, November 29, 2003 2:56 PM Subject: Furling Headsails for M15 and M17 Hi Group, Several had asked me to post my findings regarding furling (and reefable) headsails for the M15. I met with my favorite local sailmaker, Bob Hogin of Hogin Sails in Alameda, CA to discuss a one-size-fits-all solution for my M15. As mentioned previously, Bob had told me of a tri-radial cut roller furling headsail that he had built that kept good, flat shape when rolled to 30%-40%. While not previously a fan of roller furling, I have considered the possibility of installing one for more extended or rough water travels while single handing. I have a great little storm jib (also made by Bob Hogin) that, when coupled with a double-reefed main, performs beautifully in high wind scenarios. Going forward on the M15 in these conditions is less than ideal when short handed. Also, I have learned from sailing on other boats with furling that I am actually more likely to sail than motor when it is a simple matter of unrolling the jib (especially in the Pacific Northwest where winds are often light-to-nonexistant). To recap, many of the small boat furlers out there allow for furling, but not roller reefing of the headsail. The small Schaeffer Snap-Furl, and perhaps some models from CDI do have both capabilities. Anyway, Bob gave me quotes for two possible variants on his design. Given the diminutive size of both sails, he said that he could get nearly the performance from a standard cut as a tri-radail design. The standard cut utilizes 6.5 ounce standard dacron, and the tri-radial cut uses a Bainbridge 5 ounce laminated cloth. Bob also felt that this could be done with a sail larger than 135%, but my criteria was more weighted towards performance when reefed. I had him give me prices for both the M15 and M17 as follows: M15: 135% Custom with 6.5 ounce standard dacron cloth and luff Shape Tape: $270.00 135% Custom Tri-Radial with 5.0 ounce Bainbridge cloth and luff Shape Tape: $322.00 Options: U.V. Cover (for UV protection when rolled): $129.00 tell tale window: $18.00 M17: 135% Custom with 6.5 ounce standard dacron cloth and luff Shape Tape: $513.00 135% Custom Tri-Radial with 5.0 ounce Bainbridge cloth and luff Shape Tape: $640.00 Options: U.V. Cover (for UV protection when rolled): $191.00 tell tale window: $18.00 Bob will extend a discount for multiple orders, so if there are any interested parties, it would be worth coordinating. I would encourage anyone interested to speak with Bob directly (510.523.4388). You would need to discuss measurements, sheeting angles, options, etc. I told Bob that I could take my M15 in for measurements (schedule permitting), but individual boats vary and you should confirm your own measurements. Also, there would likely be differences in luff depending on type of furler. There is an M17 at Alameda Marina that might be available for reference measurements. I have several sails from Bob, and find him to be a delight to work with and his work excellent. I think there are several on the list who have used him as well. This is their slow time of year, so anyone looking for M-sails might want to give him a call. Scott, M15 #478 'bebe'