Is there a reason not to drop a beer can (with the top cut off) in the mast step hole? Wouldn't this protect the bottom and the sides of the mast step from wear?
Is there a reason not to drop a beer can (with the top cut off) in the mast step hole? Wouldn't this protect the bottom and the sides of the mast step from wear?
I reckon there's a lot of collective wisdom in the class and if something isn't commonly done there is probably a good reason why. My guess is: The bottom of the can is not completely flat and thus probably won't match the bottom of the mast step leading to uneven wear. The aluminum of the can is as thin as they can possibly make it and probably won't last very long, particularly in saltwater (which may not be an issue since some circles probably have an inexhaustable supply of empty beer cans). The aluminum is probably not really that smooth compared to the gelcoat and either a) won't be any better than the mast itself, or b) rougher than the mast and thus likely to cause more wear.
They make carbon discs and teflon tape for the mast but I think most people have found that they are not worth the trouble.
And the trump card reason not to do it: It is probably against the class rules!
Personally I always take a top from a cringles chip can, cut away the ridge that goes around the edge with scissors then drop it in the hole before stepping my mast.