I use them. The button mechanism works great, but is not a huge help as you are pitchpoling (you usually have more important things on your mind than hitting the button then, like not cranking your head on the boat). But if you end up dangling it makes getting unhooked much easier. It releases fairly easily even under load.
I find that the spreader itself is a little wide and tends to get in my way. That is probably also becuase I'm too fat though, my crew doesn't seem to have the same issues. If you get them I would suggest epoxying the rubber retainer to the hook, otherwise it can fall off when you unclip and the hooks are expensive.
Given a choice I actually prefer the keyhole system
http://www.murrays.com/mm…_Code=C-TR&Store_Code=MS. Sailing on other peoples boats I found them very secure and easy to get in and out of. The only thing stopping me from getting it right now is cost as it only comes in carbon fiber.
Regards,
Dave
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Dave Bonin
1981 Nacra 5.2 "Lucile"
1986 Nacra 5.7 "Belle"
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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