What is the best thickness for the mainsheet line in most boats. Seems there are different recommendations.
I'm not really a racer but do want the line to go through the blocks well but still be easy on the hands!
thanks
I use 5/16
. It seemed awfully small at first, but it runs through the blocks like butter and isn't that bad on the hands. Depends on the type line you get.
7/16
and 1/2
are too big.
3/8
works OK, but it depends on the type of line you use.
What's your budget? Sampson Trohpy braid is a good all-around line that's easy on the hands. About $1.13/ft for 3/8
.
Or, you could go to the Cadillac of lines - Maffioli Swiftcord at $2.87/ft for 3/8
Lots of stuff in between.
Use 5/16. The 3/8 will run but it does drag through the blocks.
the question is...what size blocks?
If you're talking original, 5:1 Seaway, or the 80's Harken 6:1 setup 3/8
will probably be OK. Those blocks are all good sized.
If you're running, or plan to run, with the latest set-up and the 40mm carbo upper block, definitly go with 5/16
(salsa <img src="<>/wink.gif" alt="wink" title="wink" height="15" width="15" /> )
yeah, I have the Harken 6:1 setup so will go with 3/8. Smaller may hurt my hands..
5/16 is the way to go,get Yale Light it lists at 5/16 but runs a little fatter (easier on hands).
How do I find out what size blocks I have?