Do you possibly have the boom to low? When placed correctly the slot is just above the boom and gives no problem with reefing. The only time the stop comes out is when you put the sail on or take it off. I guess another way is installing a small strap eye in front of the mast...then thread a short bungee loop through and put those hard balls on each end that grab each other. The strap eye would capture the bungee and keep it fast and handy without being loose. There are variations of eyes and hooks that could be done this way. You can always do the hole with cotter pin through it. I have a 22'r done that way. It isn't exactly proper but it works and costs nothing. Someday I'll put a real stop in. bp ************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com