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Columbia30 · 25-04-2011, 08:22

Hello... This is my first post so I hope it's on the proper forum. I am a newby and while going for an Easter evening sail on Feelin' Nauti with my 2 sons and a friend. The evening was calm with about a 5-7 knot wind. In the near distance we saw a storm approaching so we decided to get back to the marina before it hit. To try and beat the storm we were using the mainsail and the jib. All of a sudden the wind shifted from the south to the north with a vengeance. My level meter hit 40+ and although it was exciting it was also scary. We were able to release the jib but before I could get the main dropped I watched it rip down the leech side. My first thought was.. I wonder how much this is going to cost me! After we were able to get the main dropped and the boat under control and back to the marina safely I was able to assess the damage to my mainsail. It was a complete loss. I know there are many companies that sale used sails but are there any more reputable than the other? Any help or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

capt.bobfm · 25-04-2011, 08:28

Where are you located ?

cabo_sailor · 25-04-2011, 08:32

I've used Atlantic Sail Traders in Sarasota Fl. I bought a storm jib from them. Overall I rate it a good experience. The price was right, they explained the condition of the sail and mentioned that it needed a small amount of work. I had them make the repair, which amounted to an extra $20 or so and my sail arrived a few days later. It fit, and worked quite well.

Atlantic Sail Traders - Used sails, New sails, Sail Broker

Rich

capt.bobfm · 25-04-2011, 08:54

Atlantic sail traders is a very good choice and if you've had dealings with them before, why not stick with them.If they are too expensive,I have a lot of mains on hand.What are the dimensions of your sail?

Columbia30 · 25-04-2011, 08:55

I am located in Ft Worth, Tx.

JoeDiver · 25-04-2011, 09:10

I'm in NRH but my boat is out at Eagle Mountain....where were you? I left Harbor One around 5:30 last night to head home as it was looking pretty dark out west....

Columbia30 · 25-04-2011, 09:18

JoeDiver I am at Eagle Mountain Marina. We got to the lake about 5:15 and the storm looked pretty far away.

Columbia30 · 25-04-2011, 09:20

Capt.Bob, I've never bought a used sail so I'm looking. My dimensions are 37 luff 38.8 leech and 12.6 foot.

SabreKai · 25-04-2011, 09:23

I've ordered sails twice from the on line used sail people. Both times the purchase went with out a hitch, the sail arrived as scheduled and were as described. Have a look at their listings and order one. Piece o cake.

Sabre

capt.bobfm · 25-04-2011, 10:44

Columbia; I don't have a sail to match. Look up Atlantic sail traders in sarasota fl.Check with your local sailmakers and find out if they have any used sails or sails that they built and coulnn't sell.Look up used sails on google and you'll find a multitude of dealers in used sails. Stay away from inexpensive chinese sails.Watch craig's list in places like Ft.Lauderale,Annapolis,Galviston,and other large cities on the ocean. You shouldent have too much trouble finding a sail at a reasonable price.

TomandAnitas34 · 25-04-2011, 11:04

There's a guy in Huntsville Al. with about 50 used sails from salvage. He's selling them for good prices. Quality is a shot in the dark, but could be quite acceptable. He's on Craigslist these.

Undine · 26-04-2011, 04:49

I've bought used sails from both Atlantic Sail Traders and Bacon & Assoc.s in Annapolis MD. Both have been accurate in their quality ratings in my experience. Both places will ship anywhere. Some others selling used sails are Minney's Surplus, Masthead Sailing Gear, Second Wind Sails, The Sail Exchange, Cast Aways, and lots of others. Most such businesses have online inventory, sortable by sizes.