Lifesling Mounting

[Off Trail]

We are replacing our Lifesling due to age. Looking through the installation instructions, they specify that the bag should be mounted to the inside of a cockpit rail.

I've not seen a Lifesling carried this way, and our old one was mounted on the outside.

I could see how inside mounting might make it easier for the crew to open and deploy the sling. What do you think? How is yours mounted (if you use one)?

[wsmurdoch]

Ours is mounted outside of the stern rail and enclosed in a tightly fitting attached Sunbrella cover to protect the miserable Lifesling case from the sun.

[callistov42]

I take mine off when the boat is not in use and put it on when we head out. Ours is always mounted on the outside of the rail.

[Tayana42]

Mounted on the outside of the stern rail. Sunbrella cover.

[Luvboats]

Hola,

I have had one on each of the 6 boats I have owned and have had some mounted outside, and some inside the rail. On our current boat the wife made this fancy storage pouch after the original life sling one finally succumbed to the UV rays. I am not sure there is a huge difference, at least operationally, as to whether it is in or outside the rail. I have run numerous drills with them, we try to at least once or twice a season, and didn’t notice any issues regardless of its mounting position. I do ensure that it is clear of the stays/shrouds/davits/anchors or any other protuberance that might snag or interfere with it during deployment and that the line goes over the rail so that my wife or I can simply open the pouch and toss the sling into the water as we return to the helm to encircle and capture the person in water. I have also attached it with a large snap shackle so if it is necessary to release it for any reason it can be done quickly under load via the snap shackle or the knife mounted on the davit nearby. More info than you asked for I know but my wife accuses me of talking too much. Apparently that carries over to typing as well.

Safe Journeys,
~Jeb