Regarding Mboats: stanchions:  I don't have them on my boat.  I had them on the M17 we previously owned, but in order to be really effective in the disastrous events that require them, they won't work.  In order to do the job, they must be very tall ... above knee level at least!  Otherwise, if you hit the lines at high velocity [and in those situations, you will], they are a great means of sending you flying over the side!  If they were tall enough to do the job, they would look like ---- [you fill in whatever word fits for you].  We simply choose to be very careful, have a down-haul on the jib, and wear a harness when things get dicey.  Sure, I know people think that's nuts!  I've been laughed at more than a few times. But, we've been there for more than 40 years now and have NO OVERBOARD EXPERIENCE  [I lie!  Gloria fell overboard once when anchored in about 2 1/2 feet of water].  After another 40 years, I may change my mind ..but.. ..then again???  M17 "Pajarita"