Re: [Paddlewise] Contact Tows (was Rescue Options)

From: Michael Daly <michaeldaly_at_rogers.com>
Date: Tue, 12 Mar 2002 18:35:08 -0500
From: "Jed" <jluby_at_teamnorthatlantic.com>

> Peter's mention of "contact tows" brings up a question that has been
> bouncing around in my otherwise empty head for some time. Conventional
> wisdom call for towing gear to be quickly releasable and shock absorbent.
> Contact tows seem to be neither. Is there another option that we have
> missed? 

Around these parts, conventional wisdom says use a deck mounted cleat
and a short line with a 'biner at one end.  The 'biner is used in 
whatever way seems convenient to attach the towee and the bitter
end is attached to the cleat.  Done properly, the cleat can release
the towee quickly.  The cleat I use is a Clamcleat Sail Line CL241 
as it's small and low profile with no projecting bits to catch 
things on.  Good for up to 6mm (1/4 in) line.  Wichart stainless
'biner as well.

No shock absorbsion though.  I don't rig the tow line so tight
that I'd worry.  Only done in practice in benign conditions
though, so YMMV.

Mike

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Received on Tue Mar 12 2002 - 15:32:41 PST

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