GUIDE: choose a Facnor or Profurl sail furler?
Depending on the strength of the wind, you may need to reduce the sail area, increase it or simply put it away. These maneuvers are possible thanks to the reel which allowsfurling the sail around a profile designed for it. But not all retractors are the same. There are genoa furlers, jib furlers and mainsail furlers. Even if they all work according to similar principles, the fact remains that each type of reel has its specificities. Read this article to learn more. We also offer a small comparison to help you in your choice between a Facnor or Profurl reel.
What is a sail furler?
When sailing, always adapt the surface of the sail to the wind speed. This is why we must frequently unwind or rewind the sail by tipping or knocking the sheet. And this operation is possible thanks to the genoa furler which is now a full-fledged equipment of most of the boats. The furler is made up of different parts depending on whether it is a genoa furler, a mainsail furler or a jib furler.
Genoa furler or jib furler
- The drum is the component on which the rope is wound. Above the drum is the shackle to which the tack point is attached.
- A metal tube (the profile) several meters long is the part on which the sail is wound. The tube frames the forestay, and in its upper part is the swivel to which the halyard is attached.
With a genoa or jib furler, a headsail can be partially or totally furled.
Mainsail furling system
Mainsail furlers allow the surface of the mainsail to be adjusted more precisely, especially with a small crew. Two categories are available:
- Furling boom with horizontal battens (no longer recommended)
- Furling mast with vertical slats (less recommended)
What are the criteria for choosing a sail furler?
To choose your sail furler, you must take into account a few criteria such as the surface of your sail, the method of attachment and setting options, the navigation program (cruising, long-distance sailing, regatta, offshore navigation, etc.), the dimensions of the forestay (diameter and length) and the characteristics of your sailing ship (length and weight).
In addition, it is essential to check the quality of the materials used to design the parts of the reel, the tightness of the latter, the various options included as well as the after-sales service. In addition to the quality of the reel and its efficiency in the execution of operations, it is necessary to take into account the availability of its spare parts as well as the quality / price ratio.
If you are hesitant to choose between a Facnor or Profurl rewinder, read the rest of this article to get a better opinion on each of the two brands.
Our comparison to choose between Facnor or Profurl reel
Advantages and disadvantages of a Facnor sail furler
If you are looking for a retractor suitable for cruises or regattas, then Facnor is a good reference. This brand offers several models including the FD FlatDeck which has a fairly sophisticated luff and a strap designed for winding and unwinding. Facnor is known for designing high quality reels that respond correctly when maneuvering. The latest models he designs generally feature an elliptical double-groove profile which makes the task even easier. In addition, Facnor has a very good after-sales service.
The little flaw
The hose reel tends to wrap evenly around the drum and cause complications.
Advantages and disadvantages of a Profurl sail furler
Profurl furlers are also suitable for cruises and regattas. Specifically, the C range is suitable for cruises and the R range is suitable for regattas. One of the strengths of Profurl hose reels is the simplicity of their design. They are easy to assemble and even to repair. Profurl hose reels are quite sophisticated and their bearing is quite tight.
The little flaw
By adjusting the tension of the GSE, the halyard tends to curl up. Also, factory repair of the reel is quite expensive.
What about the Harken, Furlex and Plastimo hose reels?
Harken and Furlex are known to develop high-end reels. And you are sure to enjoy very good quality products. The most recent models are equipped with mechanisms which facilitate the staking as well as all the maneuvers. The assembly and installation of the Harken and Furlex hose reels is rather easy. But Furlex reels are quite expensive. Plastimo is a good choice if you are looking for hose reels cheap. Even if the latter brand is quite reliable, the fact remains that it is less sophisticated than Harken and Furlex.
Our opinion: Facnor or Profurl reel?
Facnor and Profurl all design safe and efficient hose reels. However, Profurl seems to have a better reputation and is the option that many sailors turn to. Profurl reels seem to meet the demands of navigation better than Facnor reels. The fact remains that Facnor is also very popular and offers better value for money. In addition, depending on the model, prices may vary. But you have the option to get a voucher used Facnor or Profurl reel because these equipments are made to last. You can find used reels in very good condition for much less than new ones at Amazon, Ebay et CDiscount.
