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Conceptually the Antrim 27 rig is different because the headstay
tension is derived through the vertical shrouds instead of a backstay. When the boat is sailing upwind and the
headstay is tight, the leeward rigging remains tight, unlike most swept-back rigging rigs which utilize fixed headstays
and an adjustable backstay. The tight leeward rigging allows the diagonals to act more like checkstays without
pulling the middle of the mast to weather. Since the Antrim 27 upper mast section does not need to transfer backstay
loads to the headstay, it is tapered to provide bend characteristics for mainsail shaping considerations. The headstay
adjustment (Rig Adjuster) allows the crew to adjust the rig horsepower from the cockpit while sailing. The swept-back
rigging provides fixed, stable support for the rig with no running or fixed backstays to worry about*.
A simple way to think of the Antrim 27's rig is that in addition to their role of keeping the mast in the middle
of the boat side to side, the vertical shroud length determines rake. Tensioning pulls the mast back and induces
pre-bend. Easing allows the mast to go forward, decreasing rake and removing pre-bend.
The diagonals have two functions. First they keep the mast in column. Second, just as importantly they limit or
control bend. Tightening the diagonals restricts bend.
As the headstay is tensioned via the Rig Adjuster, the entire rig gets tight. Any slack in the diagonals and uppers
is taken up.
* Ballenger mast requires running backstays |
Ballenger mast