Here's my 02 on furling: I've owned hank on jibs and furlers on boats from 22' to 42' (the 42' had twin furling headsails). I'm pro furling all the way except for severe weather on ocean crossings. It IS "possible" to have them snag, wrap or whatever but highly unlikely if the skipper uses common sense and has the boat rigged properly...winches to wind the sail up are the equalizer when winds pipe up. Furling keeps the crew in the cockpit and off a pitching foredeck. Safer than hank ons, especially on 15-17' boats in choppy water. At this point I don't really want a sailboat without furling gear. It just makes sailing more enjoyable to me. It sure gets pricey though.