Use of 2 sectioned masts

Question
Hello
I was wondering if I could use my 2 section mast (4.4m and 2.0m) as a one sectioned mast by just using the bottom section, the 4.4m?
Thanks
Will

Answer
Hey Will,

Good question. It would depend upon the way the 4.4m (or 440cm) section is designed. Many older style masts/mast extentions were designed to have the top section be the extention. This did have some effect on the bend characteristics of the mast, ie; incorrect bend at the upper section resulting in a poorly rigged sail.

Later designs went to a longer mast base (bottom) to provide the extention needed for bigger sails and still maintain the proper bend.

If your 4.4m (440cm) mast is actually a one piece mast, and the 2.0m section is designed to fit the top of the mast, then you should be able to use the 4.4m section as a single mast. It would probably only fit smaller sails unless you use a long mast base to extend the mast. If your 4.4m is a one piece mast, go ahead and try rigging it on the sail you want to use it for. Adjust the sail for proper rigging but also try more & less downhaul and more & less outhaul to see how the sail rigs. If it looks good, try it on the water. Watch the sail as you are sailing to see if it is performing properly. If all goes well, you should be fine. If it doesn't rig correctly, the mast may not be the right stiffness or length for the sail. It never hurts to try. Just don't go out too far on the first few reaches in case there is a problem. You want to be able to get back and resolve problems easily.

Good luck and keep on sailing,
Windlover