Thanks all. DOH. I definitely had the numbers backwards and thought to check,,, right AFTER I hit “Post Message.” I am hearing that a few people do in fact use the #2–which I am interested in for single-handing and sailing with inexperienced passengers. I know that a furler can have benefits but I like to keep it simple and reduce what can go wrong. (Been on a boat, not Ensign, where the furler jammed more than once.) Curious too if a sailmaker would be willing to cut down an old #1. I’m going to check with my sailmaker this afternoon. Heading into my 70’s I want as much fun as I can get out of this boat and the blade is yes easy peasy to tack and the boat can still feel rather sluggish. Guess I want it all :). #2 Might be worth a try but reluctant to put out too much more money in sails…

I was wondering if anyone actually uses the #1 genoa. This summer in Maine, in addition to an extremely rainy July we were plagued with many light wind days. I solo a lot or go out with people not very experienced. I generally use the blade jib. The blade is fantastic in heavy air but the boat just feels pokey in lighter air. We are often fighting swells and current. Tempted as I am to put on the #2, which would be manageable starting out, I am always worried about the wind coming up and making things difficult. (I use Predict Wind and watching the water carefully to make my decisions about going out.). I have never seen anyone mentioning using the #1 genoa as a compromise and am curious about people’s experience with it. Also wondering about experience with having an older #2 cut down for a #1 and if sailmakers are willing to do something like that.