[C320-list] Second Reef Line Arrangement

[Dennis Cookson]

Our 1999 C320 came to us fitted with a mainsail equipped with two reefing points, but whereas #1 reef has a single line that pulls in both fore and aft (thanks to the in-boom pulley block), #2 reef has a line that only hauls in at the boom end. We currently have no mechanism at the luff and I’m interested in what other 320 owners have done to remedy this. There are no reef horns at the gooseneck, and I’d prefer not to fit them given the possibility of accidental sail damage.  The C320 manual offers no advice in this area other than to say the second reef line is a single line of 70’ in length.

I’m thinking of using a Cunningham for the #2 luff reef, or even just a short Dyneema line from the gooseneck fitted with a snap shackle or S hook for quick attachment when required. Do I really need 4:1 purchase or similar for a reef line?  

What works best for you?

Dennis Cookson
#577, 1999