A diy boom brake for £8.95

Misunderstood and little used, the kicking strap or vang is often largely ignored by cruising sailors. It is an important sail control, however, helping you to flatten or open the main as required. Ra

Ascending a mast is often undertaken light-heartedly, but it’s a high-risk operation which, if it goes wrong, can result in serious injury, explains Andrew Simpson

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Andrew Simpson looks at pendulum servo self-steering gears, and describes how to get the best out of them

A regular review of your boat’s rigging will prevent expensive failures – and potentially be a lifesaver…