In relation to developments of the snuffer, I thought I would convey my thoughts and what I am developing for my Taipan.



Making a snuffer out of carbon rods and attaching this to the side of the pole just in front of the bridle (Guck style). Carbon rod is from a kayak oar and was relatively cheap (approx $35 aussie) but also very light and strong. Cut it up and fibreglassed this together in a rectangular/house shape with inserts and fancy little joins to lock the pieces together. Currently needing to sand it down to make all smooth before putting on a final layer of carbon. The spinnaker chute bag will wrap around the rods making a smooth entry for the kite. The chute will then go back underneath the tramp about 50cm and attach to loops sewn into tramp.



The spinnaker retrieval rope will then go through the end of the bag and back to a cheek block attached underneath the tramp (or rear beam have not yet decided). It will then go forward (still underneath the tramp) to an exit block about 2 feet from the front beam in the middle of the tramp. Made a small metal plate to be sewed into the tramp to hold this on. Crew will pull the spinnaker down from this point. The tail of the retrieval is also the halyard (one line for both) so the next point is an upside-down 180 situated on starboard side of mast about 2 foot up where the kite will be pulled up (Tornado style).



I have a seperate line to pull the tack out which I am in control of which is 2:1.



This system should work a lot better than the bag on deck which I am currently using. It is sort of an adaption of what the Tornados are using. Let me know what you think, comments etc.



On another point, using the kite the other weekend in 12 to 18 knots gusting to over 20 was an absolute blast. Lots of control with no load or helm on the rudders. Basically point and shoot stuff. Still working out where skipper and crew need to sit to get best VMG. Can't wait to get it all properly organised and for the new season to start.



Cheers

James