Main Sheet

I checked main sheet pricing at the local Hobie dealer. They told me that a lot of customers go from the 3/8" to 1/2" line because it's easier on the hands. Hobie suggests sticking with spec line (3/8").

I'm a little concerned about the heavier line going through all the blocks. Anyone had experience?

Thanks. The Dog

I don't know anyone going with 1/2" as mainsheet for the simple reason it won't fit in most blocks.

If you're using 2.25" (57mm) blocks, 3/8" fits good, 7/16" doesn't. If you've got 3" (75mm) blocks, 7/16" fits good, 1/2" doesn't (at least not very well).

The advantage of smaller line is that when you let go, it feeds out faster - assuming your tackle is in good shape. The advantage of bigger line is ease of sheeting in - more to hold on to. But smaller line is cheaper and plenty strong enough for the applications we have

And I'm "The Dog"... Have been for years. But I guess there's probably room for two if I have to share.

Cheers,
Brian C

Dog;

Yes you are The Original Dog. Happy to meet you. I'll stay with Hobie Dog to keep from stepping on toes. I just don't want anyone assuming I know a lot about sailing because of it. Actually, always liked the name from Baywatch.

Thank you for clarifying the line sizes for me. That helps a lot. I will take your advice.

HD

Stick with the 3/8 line. Half inch is HUGE!

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9mm Maffioli Swiftcord works great on my 7:1
system

Hey Hobie Dog,

The advice given in this post is well noted. I have sorta large hands and 3/8" sheet feels like kite string, especially when I'm on the wire. That's the reason I spliced my main sheet. I connected my blocks, let the boom out as to consume as much sheet ( 3/8") as was needed for sailing downwind, then cut it and spliced on 1/2" sheet to the remaining length.

When you're on the tramp and sheeted in, you still have to handle the 3/8" sheet. But further out (especially on a reach) when you really need to apply sheet tension, 1/2" sheet feels very compfortable.

I spliced 3" of each core (using sail/or upolstery thread) together then overlap the 3/8" sleeve over both cores. Then I overlap the 1/2" sleeve over the 3/8" sleeve, stiching all these connection with a good solid stitch. Finally, I cover the seam with friction tape. If the sail ever goes all the way out, the tape will act as a stop in the main block cleat preventing the continued movement of the sail.

I also use 3/8" for my main traveler sheet but that's a connection that I tie to my mail (sail) sheet. Sounds like a lot of work? At first, I thought so too but you will discover that it was well worth it when you're out on the water.

Happy Sailing,

David

P.S. Yo Dog!!! Just wanted to give you your "props" while I was out here.