Does my mainsheet really need to be this long?

[mike]

My mainsheet seems much, much too long... even with the boom sheeted out far, I still have a pile of line in the cockpit. I'm guessing this is the "stock" mainsheet, as it has a little black sticker wrapped around it that indicates what it is.

Anyway, perhaps this is a dumb question, but is there any reason why I shouldn't shorten it? I'd retain enough line to still be able to hold the sheet all around the cockpit (plus a little extra). Or, is there a reason for it to be so long?

--Mike

[dclark]

As long as the boom swings out as far as you need, cut it.

[Chip Hindes]

I know what you mean; I have the same problem. On the other hand, I have a real phobia against shortening lines. The idea of it gives me the same sort of queasy feeling as if you asked me why you shouldn't cut off one of your little used fingers

[Duane Dunn, Allegro]

You need enough line to swing the boom clear out to the mast stays. As long as you get there you are fine, you can't go any farther.

Is it rigged 4:1? Perhaps someone reduced the purchase but didn't adjust the line length. The factory isn't one to give you extra of anything so it seems like there must be some other explanation.

[Bill at BOATS 4 SAIL]

The length of the mainsheet for the 26X is 42', 26M - 46', 26C - 38', M19 - 48'

[Scott]

Being as I use my mainsheet for my mast crane I need a long one.