I plan to replace my mainsail this winter (original 1983 sail by McKibben), and I'm considering going with one or two full-length battens at the top. I've read that full battens will aid sail shape, limit flogging and ease handling. Are there any M-17 owners out there who've had any full battens in their mains? Did they enhance the sail's performance? Was there any problem with the battens catching on the backstay on tacks? I've talked with Harry Pattison at Elliott Pattison Sailmakers about this, and he cautioned me that full battens on an M-17 may catch on the backstay when tacking. I suggested that I send my old main, which doesn't hit the backstay, as I recall (fall sailing already seems like a long time ago), to help him avoid extending too much roach. Harry knows his stuff, so I'll definitely listen to his advice. I'd enjoy getting anyone's feedback on this as well, either pro or con. Thanks much and happy holidays! Gordon M-17 #377 "Sapphire" Milwaukee