Thanks for the link. So it sounds like if I were racing, then it might make a difference between a 4 and 6 second tack, but for my purposes (recreation), it's more of a preference thing. Also sounds like the cats heal over much slower than my scow did, so even if I have it cleated and get hit by a gust, there’s plenty of time to uncleat and loosen the main, or turn upwind a little?

With my scow, it was more of a pressure thing. Once I had the boat healed some, If I kept close to the same pressure on the main sheet (through puff or lull) I was able to keep the boat on the same healing angle and didn’t have to change my line or play with the rudder so much. If I just held onto the main and got hit by a heavy gust, I’d either have to head up or get pushed over. Sounds like the cat will accelerate easier through the puffs.

Sounds like I just need to get it in the water and play around with it. I won’t be able to take it out this weekend, but hopefully I’ll get a chance next week.

Sorry to keep referring back to the scow, but that's where most of my experience is.