Quick release hardware for jib

I have been using a snap shackle to quickly attach the jib tack to the forestay adjuster. It seemed to be a better and faster method than dropping pin rings in the sand with incoming waves. The snap shackle has worked great in fairly stiff winds and with usually one guy on the trapeeze, until last weekend.

We were ready to launch and my crew (220 lbs) was trying out the trapeeze while still on the beach for adjustment purposes and the snap shackle snapped (now I get it). The swivel on the snap shackle is what busted and the jib started flying around the mast. The sails were in the luff position and under no load except for the guy in the trap.

I have been thinking about that situation and traced the loads put on whatever pin or shackle is used to connect the jib to the forestay adjuster. When fully loaded, it has to support 1/2 the force of the jib, the main and the weight of the trapeeze crew at the same time. I say only 1/2 because basically only two stays are in use at a time.

I'm glad I was not sailing when the shackle blew out and dumped my buddy in the ocean. I can't believe that the shackle did not fail the last time I had it out in a northeastern with a crew in the trap weighing about 180. I suppose it was just metal fatigue.

Is a quick release pin a better alternative?

Thanks
wetasse

Use a shackle:


Do not use a quick-pin on the jib tack.