Lazyjacks, Slab Reefing and Mainsail Covers

There are different ways to rig lazyjacks, depending on your preference and your sailboat's configuration. One common method is to attach a small block on the mast where the lazyjack control line will turn and come down to deck level. Then add a cleat on the mast where you'll cleat off the lazyjack control line. The control line will run through the block and split into two, three or four legs that will attach to the boom or a stack pack. You can use snap hooks, eye straps, or pad eyes to secure the legs to the boom.

To retract lazyjacks when not in use, you need to release each lazyjack where it's cleated on the mast, pull the two lines that are attached to the boom forward, and hook them on the reef hooks or the cleats that the lazyjacks are on. Then tighten up the lazyjack lines. The lazyjacks now form a reverse "L" going along the boom and up the mast. This way, they will not chafe on the main or interfere with the sail cover.

To reef the mainsail with lazyjacks, you need to follow these steps:

• Head up into the wind and ease the mainsheet and vang;

• Release the halyard and lower the sail until it reaches the desired reef point;

• Secure the tack reef line to either a hook or a cleat at the gooseneck;

• Pull in the clew reef line until it is tight and cleat it off;

• Tension the halyard and trim the mainsheet and vang;

• Adjust your course and sail trim for your new sail area.

The lazyjacks will help to hold the lowered part of the sail on the boom or stack pack. You may not need any additional securing, depending on the conditions.

The number of legs for your lazyjack system depends on your boat size and boom length. Generally, smaller boats or shorter booms can get away with two-leg systems, while larger boats or longer booms may need threeor four-leg systems. The more legs you have, the better your sail will be contained when lowered.

Lazyjacks are not without their drawbacks. Some of them are:

• They can snag your battens or headboard when raising or lowering your sail, especially in windy conditions or if you are not pointing directly into the wind;

• They can chafe your sail if left in place while sailing, especially on long passages or in strong winds;

• They can interfere with your sail cover if not rigged properly or retracted when not needed;

• They can add windage and weight aloft, which may affect your boat's performance.

Some alternatives to lazyjacks are:

• A Dutchman system, which consists of thin monofilament lines that run through grommets in your sail and guide it into neat folds when lowered. This system requires retrofitting your sail and may be more expensive than lazyjacks;

• A Lazybag system, which combines a sail cover and lazyjacks into one package. This system offers convenience and protection for your sail, but may also be more costly and bulky than lazyjacks;

• A furling system, which allows you to roll up your sail inside the boom or the mast. This system eliminates the need for lazyjacks, but also changes the shape and performance of your sail. It may also require a new sail and a lot of modifications to your rig.

To maintain your lazyjack system, you should:

• Check the condition of the lines, blocks, cleats, and attachments regularly and replace them if they are worn or damaged;

• Keep the lines clean and free of dirt, salt, and UV damage. You can wash them with freshwater and mild soap if needed;

• Lubricate the blocks and cleats occasionally to ensure smooth operation;

• Retract the lazyjacks when not in use to prevent chafe and windage.

To adjust your lazyjack system, you can:

• Change the length of the control line or the legs to suit your sail size and shape. You can use knots, splices, or shackles to adjust the length;

• Change the position of the attachments on the boom or stack pack to create more or less space for your sail. You can use different holes, eye straps, or pad eyes to change the position;

• Change the angle of the risers or the legs to create more or less tension on your sail. You can use different blocks, fairleads, or pad eyes to change the angle.