[C320-list] Jacklines

[Dennis Harris]

Joe,

There are probably lots of others on this list that could give a better 
answer.  I sail in sheltered waters and it is unlikely that I will need such 
gear, but just in case, here's what I rigged up for myself.  You have to 
decide if it suits your needs.  If you are sailing in open/rough waters, you 
probably don't want to cut corners here and can buy better gear at West 
Marine, Defender, or other stores....if you know you are likely to need it, 
don't go cheap.  Generally, flat polyester tubing seems to be recommended 
for jack lines (because a round line can roll out from under you).  However, 
I have two 1/2" double braid Nylon mooring lines (35 ft. I believe, check 
needed length) as jack lines.  They are rated about 8500 lbs. breaking 
strength.  The starboard line splice eye is placed through and around port 
bow cleat horns so it cannot come off.  The line is passed tightly down the 
starboard side next to/ just outboard of shrouds and back to push pit 
vertical stanchion at the back of helm station, around the stanchion to the 
starboard cleat and cleated off.  This keeps the line inboard and in 
locations where it is not likely to be stepped on.  An alternate would be to 
go directly past the shrouds to the starboard stern cleat, but the line is a 
little more exposed in walking areas.  For tethers, I use 1/2" double braid 
Nylon, with two tethers, one 3' and one 6'.  On the end connecting to my 
harness/inflatable life jacket D rings, I have a quick release pelican hook 
with short lanyard (you might want to get disconnected quickly).  On the 
other tether ends, I have carabineer hooks or stainless steel quick links. 
This seems to mimic the standard arrangement that is usually recommended at 
lowest cost.  Of course, the fallacy in either, the top of line, or cheap do 
it yourself arrangements is that when you fall, the jack line stretches a 
bit and that, combined with the tether length (3' or 6') puts you dangling 
overboard where you can't get back on the boat if you go under the lifeline 
on the side to which you are connected.  If I ever have to use my 
arrangement, I will go forward in a crouch or on my knees, but before I do, 
I will tie a loop in the tether being used to shorten it to a couple of feet 
so I cannot go overboard to the point that I can't get back on board. 
(Actually, the round tether lines are a plus when you tie in a shortening 
loop since it will be easier to untie).  Also, with two tethers, it is my 
intent in such conditions to be hooked into something with one of those at 
all times. Being pulled through the water at 5 kts. is not a very good way 
to die.

Dennis Harris
C320 # 694

-----Original Message----- 
From: Joseph Aberdale
Sent: Monday, February 28, 2011 2:50 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Jacklines

Hello To All,

I have a 2002  C320 and am looking for a good jackline arrangement at
minimum cost.  Does anyone make his own? What materials?

Thank you.

Joe
#908