For the storm jib on my M15 I request a 70% jib without a high clew ( reduces sail area more and prevents catching waves). The rational is that I still wanted enough drive to punch into the waves. Without some power you become somewhat helpless. This has worked well for my coastal cruising. The first step down is a reefed main, second step down is the 70% jib, third step down is a second reef in the main. I have not had to take a forth step :-) I will try to measure it and get a picture over the holidays. One of the other M15s I cruise with goes to his 70% jib with a high clew as his first step down. If it gets worse he does not have to go on deck to change sails. Thanks Doug Kelch "Seas the Day" GILASAILR@aol.com wrote: >From USSailing - see link below.: "As the winds approach and exceed 15 knots, many sailboats should have a single reefing point placed. In large sailboats (greater than 30 feet LOA: Overall Length) the second point, is often placed when winds exceed 25 knots. Smaller boats (below 26 to 30 feet LOA) may have greater difficulty in high winds. Often it is best to sail with a storm jib (25% jib) or, if a beginning sailor, to hoist the "Iron Genoa" ( turn on the motor and take down the sails ). Some large sailboats are designed to sail efficiently and comfortably without reefing in winds of 20 to 25 knots." _http://www.sailingusa.info/weather_and_reefing.htm_ (http://www.sailingusa.info/weather_and_reefing.htm) **************************************Check out AOL's list of 2007's hottest products. (http://money.aol.com/special/hot-products-2007?NCID=aoltop00030000000001) _______________________________________________ http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/montgomery_boats --------------------------------- Never miss a thing. Make Yahoo your homepage.