As it stands around here, mid-east, there's really no class to speak of. Sometimes enough boats show to make a class. I don't see how opening it could hurt the "class" as long as parameters are laid out to keep it from becoming an arms race. Opening the sail to different makers would increase quality and lower the price.If you weren't comfortable with another sailmaker you use Skips i.e. the factory sail. Size stays the same.No carbon added anywhere it all ready isn't.No performance enhancing mods.
As it is we have 2 self tackers,2 booms, 3 styles of rudders, sails of many dimensions,3 spin pole combos,2 different style jibs,and 2 different style tramps,off the top of my head. We aren't exactly a one design even though we are.
This isn't necessarily something I want to do but seems it may be the only way to make it affordable/viable which would keep the class going instead of kill it.
I don't see PC lowering their prices ever, even if they could. If the peeps is buyin' why drop the price. For them it's good business,For us it's called a rock and a hard place.
Todd

"I said, now, I said ,pay attention boy!"

The cure for anything is salt water - sweat, tears, or the sea
Isak Dinesen
If a man is to be obsessed by something.... I suppose a boat is as good as anything... perhaps a bit better than most.
E. B. White