BLUEMOMENT

For those that don't already know, my boat is an old 21ft Debutante that is currently being worked on in anticipation of launching her at the end of April. However, one of the remaining tasks is that of replacing the old (and not looked after) bottlescrews.
I understand that modern racing yachts are using Dyneema more and more, instead of stainless bottle screws. The standing rigging is fine, so what is the opinion of the forum ?
Do I continue to search for a reasonably priced source of bottle screws or do I switch to the modern Dyneema method, and if so, any tips on tensioning ?

modern racing yachts are using Dyneema more and more, instead of stainless bottle screws.

How does that work then?

Loads of information on here
http://www.extremeriggingperformance.co ... igging.swf
But I'm going on information recieved so looking for more if anyone knows ?

Also states on this site that it's uses include replacing bottlescrews
http://www.cousin-trestec.com/medias/me ... l_2006.pdf

..... can't see how that can work.

just stick to conventional bottle screws and use them as they are intended.

Usual caveats - I'm no expert; but

Comments; kevlar ropes are prone to damage if bent at too tight a radius, not sure how dyneema performs in this respect. Anyway, I would be inclined to use traditional deadeye techniques if using small dia cord to replace bottle screws.

It will at least be easy to see potential problems and replace/ reinforce as necessary at an early stage.

It works well using basic cord on dinghies, and Debbie is only an overweight dinghy with a lid on. But dinghies are normally only used for day sailing from a beach (unless your name is Frank or Margaret Dye)

Still can't figure how you're going to achieve and maintain the required tension and precision of adjustment (although I'm sure it would be strong enough) at less cost than bottle screws. How cheap do you need them to be? Gael Force SS fork/fork bottle screws.

My pal with the fast trimiran uses what are effectively light plastic versions of old fashioned dead eyes, but laced with thin, v. strong, high tech string. The overall weight is apparently less than ss rigging screws, but I suspect that for more normally constructed boats the advantage is likely to be insignificant.