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BozSail · 04-10-2019, 07:13

Mast Mate is an alternating-step flexible ladder made of 2 inch-wide nylon webbing. The sewn tensile strength of the webbing is 3,000 pounds. The distance between the alternating steps is 17 inches. The steps are double reinforced with the same webbing. The steps are not sewn on to a main strap, but rather are formed by two continuous parallel straps of webbing, one sewn to form the step, the other straight, and visa versa, over the length of the ladder. Thus the Mast Mate is one contiguous unit.

A No. 3 spur grommet is attached between each step (36 grommets for the 50-foot). A stout D ring is affixed at the top for halyard connection. Nylon retainer shackles are provided for connecting the step grommets to the appropriate slides or slugs provided by the owner. There is a double step at the top, 3 feet below the halyard connection, for equal footing when working. The double step can be positioned at any point along the mast, A No. 3 grommet is provided between the halyard connection and the double step for gear attachment, bosun’s chair, tool bag, or safety harness.
Mast Mate is raised only when needed. It is hoisted just as is the mainsail. If the particular track or slot system has a gate, Mast Mate is fed in above the lowered main; otherwise, the main must be taken off the track or slot. A downhaul is recommended, but the weight of the climber will take the slack out of the system.
A common problem, main halyard retrieval, can be solved with Mast Mate by using the jib halyard (masthead rig only) or adjustable topping lift. If a spare halyard is available, Mast Mate affixed will provide a means to lessen the burden of going aloft in the bosun’s chair by taking the weight off the wincher. Mast Mate can also be used as an emergency boarding ladder by looping a step over a winch and casting the rest overboard. When not in use, Mast Mate is rolled compactly (per instructions) and stowed in the nylon bag provided. The 50′ Mast Mate weighs 11.5 pounds and is 16″ X 2″ rolled.

Cost new = $435. Sale price = $250 obo.
email: boz.sailing@gmail.com