Soft Shackle Clew Tie Down

MrXC

Member
My brain is wandering too much during lockdown. Is there any reason not to use a soft shackle instead of the velcro clew tie down? It seems like one would constitute a "tie line" with a "fastening device." It could violate the builders supplied rule, but the rules don't specify a tie down line needs to come from a builder or how it is tied.
 
You can use any rope or strap for the clew tiedown. With a "soft shackle", do you mean a line with a spliced loop at one end and a stopper knot at the other? Legal sure, but would you get it tight enough?

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I've used random pieces of line for my laser when I've left the clew strap at home or one of my teammates "borrowed" it the day I didn't show up to practice. The velcro slides along the boom so much smoother than any line I've used has.
 
Thanks both.

LaLi, yes exactly. To get it tight enough, I assume I'd have to make one with a closed circumference that is the same as a velcro strap. That may not be an easy feat!

James123, I find that if I forget to lubricate my velcro strap regularly in binds up the return after releasing the outhaul. I was thinking whether I could make something legal that could be released quickly and slide better.
 
Thanks both.

LaLi, yes exactly. To get it tight enough, I assume I'd have to make one with a closed circumference that is the same as a velcro strap. That may not be an easy feat!

James123, I find that if I forget to lubricate my velcro strap regularly in binds up the return after releasing the outhaul. I was thinking whether I could make something legal that could be released quickly and slide better.
I run a length of elastic shock cord from either the out haul shackle or the grommet to the unused cleat on the boom. Silicone spray also really helps everything slide and spin properly.
 
I don't know what a "soft shackle" is, but here's my humble arrangement. Doubt it's legal but I don't race. The porcelain "beadwork" glides really easy in either direction. (and yes, I've tighten it down toward the boom since this first trial photo was taken).
IMG_2250.JPG
 
Nothing illegal in that.
People who don't know the rules tend to think they are stricter than they are in reality. Interesting psychological phenomenon :rolleyes:

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Are you sure it’s legal? With the rotating beads added you surprise me.
It looks to be an elegant solution but I am surprise if it’s allowed
5B143DC9-68D9-498A-8223-3898B4820B8F.png
 
Class rule 3.g.ii. says "If the clew tie down is a tie line, it may be passed through solid balls with holes and/or tubes to reduce friction."

What surprises me time after time is that people don't go to the original source themselves :confused:

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