So I'm on the hunt for a new mizzen as mine is past it's prime.
I've found a few used options, and have a number of quotes from sail lofts for new ones.
Before i pull the trigger I wanted to ask and get y'all's input on a fully battened mizzen...
Have folks made the switch from a partial to a full battened mizzen? Worth the extra cost? Noticeable changes in sail performance or trim? Or should I save the extra money and put it towards other projects?
I'm on the fence and can see the benefits of going either route.
Thanks in advance!
From a sail makers perspective the answer is yes. Full battens are a plus for a mizzen.
A mizzen needs to be cut very flat because it lives in the deflected air of the main. Full length battens help that cause. The apparent wind direction of the air coming off of the main requires the sail to be trimmed closer to center line. To achieve this when close hauled often requires the boom to be above center and the sail to be trimmed in very tight. The flatter the sail (less draft) the better. Battens will help immensely.
The only drawback is the added weight when hoisting, but that maybe offset by the fact the sail will be easier to flake and put away.
Dale
Obersheimers
Maruska
Thanks so much Dale, that makes alot of sense. Good to hear it will be worth the extra cost to go full battens!