fujimo said...
posted over in sail making as well, but thought i had better post here too.
1. where would be the best place to buy masts for the mini here in canada, or usa.
and what would be the recommended type of mast- nice and robust- handle lots of abuse- doesnt need to be the lightest or fastest
2. sail plans or patterns for the mini?? anybody have some- or an idea where i can get hold of some
thanks all
wayne
Hi Fujimo
Masts for minis I have used old windsurfer masts you need to put a stiffener in the bottom for a metre or so using another section of windsurf mast or plane a taper on some timber to fit You also need to figure out what length you can comfortably transport I have made mine three piece by fitting a hardwood joiner into the lower section again they need to be tapered and glued to the lower part
Sails Again the used windsurf sails are an economical choice they usually need to be flattened by recutting if you want some speed but several people have used them just as they are successfully Plenty of info on this site to do both these things
Aluminium tube as has been said can be a bit of a minefield of sizes availability etc
For a knockabout mini its hard to go past used windsurf gear if you can find it