I think the simplest sytsem is to rig a snuffer...easiest for the crew and has almost nothing on the tramp (just the single halyard/retreival line that can be easily organized by running it through a block on a shock cord near the rear beam). The down side is that you need to have the spinnaker set up for it (grommets added at the right places) and you have to purchase the hoop and sock. This is the best for quick and easy hoist and retreival of the spinnaker. Many are switching from end pole snuffers to the mid-pole system. There might be someone who wants to sell their old end pole rig and spinnaker, which could be a good deal.

The tramp bag system was preferred by the long distance racers because it has less windage (hoop and sock), is probably a little lighter, and they didn't have many hoists and retreivals in long distance racing. It does leave the spinnaker on the tramp when going upwind, and the bag is there all the time.


Les Gallagher