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420 vs FJ racing

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Does anyone have solid advice as far as racing fj's v 420's (purely boat speed related)? My impression is the fj is slightly more responsive, and likes to point a little more than go low and fast upwind, but i have only had a few races in one. I have plenty of 420 experience so I wont have any problem working off of comparisons. It would be collegiate so no chutes or traps involved. Thanks  

At the risk of sounding seditious, try the Dinghy thread at SA: Sailing Anarchy Forums -> Dinghy Anarchy The Racing forum at Sailnet just isn't that robust, look how many days or weeks there between threads. SA is definitely rougn-and-tumble, but much more race-oriented...  

fj sailboat vs 420

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fj sailboat vs 420

  • 420 Sailboats: Exploring the Thrill of Dinghy Sailing

Sailing has been an adventurous and captivating water activity enjoyed by enthusiasts around the world for centuries. Among the various sailing boats, the 420 sailboat stands out as a popular choice for dinghy sailing. In this article, we will delve into the exciting world of 420 sailboats, understand what makes them unique, explore different sailing dinghy types, and discover the thrill of dinghy cruising. So, hoist the sails and let's embark on this thrilling journey!

What are 420 Sailboats?

1.1 the origins of the 420 sailboat.

The 420 sailboat originated in France in the late 1950s as a two-person dinghy designed for competitive racing. Its design was based on the popularity of the larger 470 sailboat and was intended to create a more accessible racing boat for young sailors.

1.2 Design and Characteristics

The 420 sailboat typically measures around 4.2 meters (13 feet 9 inches) in length, featuring a single trapeze, a mainsail, and a jib. The boat's hull is often made of fiberglass, ensuring durability and performance on the water.

1.3 Sailing Community and Competitions

Over the years, the 420 sailboat has garnered a strong global following, becoming one of the most popular dinghies for youth and amateur sailors. The boat's versatility allows both beginners and experienced sailors to enjoy thrilling competitions and hone their skills.

The Fascination of Dinghy Sailing

2.1 understanding dinghy sailing.

Dinghy sailing involves sailing small boats, often single-handedly or with a crew of one or two. It offers a more intimate connection with the water, providing sailors with an immersive experience of being one with the elements.

2.2 Advantages of Dinghy Sailing

Dinghy sailing offers several advantages, such as affordability, portability, and maneuverability. Sailors can easily transport and launch dinghies, allowing them to explore various water bodies and remote sailing destinations.

2.3 Challenges and Skills Required

While dinghy sailing is exhilarating, it requires a certain level of skill and adaptability. Sailors must learn to handle the boat in changing weather conditions and use their body weight to maintain stability.

Exploring Dinghy Cruising

3.1 escaping to serene waters.

Dinghy cruising offers a unique opportunity to explore secluded coves, tranquil lakes, and winding rivers. Sailors can escape the bustling city life and immerse themselves in the serenity of nature.

3.2 Navigating the Seas with Confidence

Before embarking on a dinghy cruise, sailors must acquaint themselves with navigation skills, weather patterns, and safety procedures. Proper planning and preparation are essential for a safe and enjoyable journey.

3.3 Preparing for a Dinghy Cruise

Preparing for a dinghy cruise involves packing essential supplies, inspecting the boat's condition, and ensuring all safety equipment is onboard. Additionally, sailors should inform someone about their sailing plans for added security.

Different Types of Sailing Dinghies

4.1 traditional sailing dinghies.

Traditional sailing dinghies often have classic designs and are cherished for their historical significance. They offer a nostalgic sailing experience, appealing to enthusiasts looking to reconnect with the past.

4.2 Modern Performance Dinghies

Modern performance dinghies, like the 420 sailboat, are designed for optimal speed and maneuverability. They are favored by competitive sailors and those seeking an adrenaline-fueled sailing experience.

4.3 Choosing the Right Dinghy for You

When selecting a sailing dinghy, consider your sailing goals, experience level, and preferred type of sailing. Consulting with experienced sailors or boat dealers can help you make an informed decision.

Unraveling the Mystery of Dinghies

5.1 defining a dinghy.

A dinghy is a small boat, often with a shallow draft, suitable for short trips near the shore or larger vessels. Dinghies serve various purposes, such as transportation between a yacht and the shore.

5.2 Brief History of Dinghies

Dinghies have a rich history, dating back to ancient times when they were used as lifeboats and for short excursions from larger ships. Their design and purpose have evolved over centuries.

5.3 The Role of Dinghies Today

In the modern era, dinghies continue to play a crucial role in recreational sailing, racing events, and as safety boats for larger vessels. Their versatility and ease of handling make them an essential part of the sailing community.

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The versatility of the 420 sailboat, 6.1 thrilling racing experience.

The 420 sailboat offers an exhilarating racing experience, with its responsive design and competitive class association events worldwide. Sailing enthusiasts can participate in friendly regattas or challenging competitions.

6.2 Casual Sailing and Cruising

Beyond racing, the 420 sailboat is equally enjoyable for leisurely sailing and cruising. Its stable and forgiving nature makes it suitable for novices, families, and friends seeking quality time on the water.

6.3 Ideal for Novices and Experts Alike

The 420 sailboat strikes a perfect balance between beginner-friendly features and high-performance capabilities. Novice sailors can develop their skills with ease, while experienced sailors can explore advanced techniques.

420 Sailboat vs. Flying Junior Sailboat

7.1 a closer look at flying junior sailboat.

The Flying Junior (FJ) sailboat is another popular double-handed dinghy known for its competitive racing and sailing programs in schools and clubs worldwide.

7.2 Key Differences and Similarities

While the 420 sailboat and Flying Junior share similarities in terms of size and purpose, they have distinct design elements, which affect their handling and performance.

7.3 Choosing Between the Two

Choosing between the 420 sailboat and Flying Junior depends on individual preferences, training programs available, and desired sailing experience. Both boats offer thrilling adventures for sailors of all ages.

Yacht vs. Boat: Understanding the Distinction

8.1 what defines a yacht.

A yacht is a larger and more luxurious vessel, often used for recreational purposes, cruising, and leisure activities. Yachts are known for their opulence, amenities, and long-range capabilities.

8.2 How is a Boat Different?

Boats, including sailing dinghies like the 420, refer to smaller watercraft used for various purposes, such as sailing, fishing, transportation, and sports.

8.3 Determining the Right Vessel for Your Needs

Selecting between a yacht and a boat depends on factors such as budget, desired activities, number of passengers, and the kind of sailing experience you wish to have.

The Thrill of 420 Sailing Competitions

9.1 the competitive spirit.

420 sailing competitions are known for their competitive spirit and camaraderie among sailors. Participants challenge their skills and tactics to outperform their rivals.

9.2 International 420 Class Association (ICA)

The International 420 Class Association (ICA) is the governing body that organizes and regulates 420 sailing events worldwide, fostering a vibrant and inclusive sailing community.

9.3 Notable 420 Sailing Events

From local regattas to prestigious international championships, 420 sailors have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of events that cater to different skill levels and age groups.

Owning a 420 Sailboat: A Dream Come True

10.1 factors to consider before purchasing.

If you're considering owning a 420 sailboat, factors like budget, boat condition, and available storage space should be carefully evaluated to make the right investment.

10.2 Maintaining Your 420 Sailboat

Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your 420 sailboat in top-notch condition. Regular inspections, cleaning, and timely repairs contribute to its longevity and performance.

10.3 Cherishing the Sailing Memories

Owning a 420 sailboat is not just about the vessel itself but the unforgettable memories created on the water. Cherish the moments spent sailing, racing, and exploring new horizons.

420 sailboats have captivated sailors worldwide, offering a versatile and thrilling sailing experience. From competitive racing to leisurely cruising, the 420 sailboat has proven its mettle as a reliable and exciting dinghy. Whether you're an experienced sailor seeking a new challenge or a novice eager to learn the ropes, the 420 sailboat is ready to take you on a memorable adventure on the open waters.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite  sailing destinations.

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Crewing Guide to College Dinghies

December 24, 2013 by Sail1Design Editor Leave a Comment

By Airwaves writer Lydia Whiteford

Upon entering high school or college sailing, most crews who have been sailing for a while are very familiar with the Club 420. However, if these crews are coming out of club sailing, it can suddenly become a different boat altogether when it is stripped of its trap and spinnaker rig. Then, a variety of different other dinghies, sometimes unique to certain schools themselves, suddenly pop up in collegiate sailing and crews have to learn these boats as well as any other. In this article, I’ve compiled a list of helpful tips to assist new college crews in adapting to the number of different boats they may face in their careers.

420s: There is a surprisingly large difference, technically, between crewing in a club 420 rigged with a spinnaker and trap and one rigged for high school and college sailing. The biggest difference is that the boats are often heavier, with some venues filling the rails of all their boats to minimize damage in collisions. Also, collegiate races are shorter than club races, so boat handling really becomes important to going fast as opposed to just straight-line boat speed. Therefore, the biggest thing for crews who are used to sailing club boats to get used to is the boat handling. Roll tacking a 420, in particular, can be a deadly weapon and can guarantee good boat speed especially in conditions where the wind is limited. Because good roll tacking is mostly dependent on timing, my advice is to develop a practice with your skipper in which you can count down to a roll. A simple “ready to tack” followed by a “3…2…1…tacking” is the best way to get this started, and eventually you will be so practiced that the timing will become muscle memory. 420s are often the easiest boat to adapt to, because most crews coming into college sailing are already familiar with them.

FJs: FJs are arguably the most sailed dinghies in college sailing. Because of all the schools with venues that are on lakes or rivers, FJs are usually the boat of choice. Crewing in an FJ is vastly different from crewing in an FJ, starting with the fact that while sailing upwind the crew sits backwards. This can be difficult to get used to, but it is something you should do the first time you get into an FJ so you can start practicing immediately, even though it is tempting to sit forwards the first couple of times. The major benefit of sitting backwards is that the crew is now facing the skipper, so timing for maneuvers is easier to coordinate if you can look at your skipper or crew throughout the whole thing. Also, an FJ roll tack or roll jibe should feel a lot snappier than a 420, as the boats are more tippy and maneuverable. A 420 roll tends to involve your entire body to achieve the same feeling that a properly timed shoulder snap can give you in an FJ.

            The second biggest thing to get used to when crewing in FJs is that the leads for the jib are adjustable, and they don’t cleat. The jib is much bigger, so it is more important in these boats to be able to ease and trim constantly to achieve top speed. However, because you cannot cleat your jib it is easy to not have it trimmed correctly. My best advice on this is to play around in practice and make sure to inspect your jib whenever you make a change. Once you can see what easing, trimming, or moving the leads does to the jib shape, it is easier to recognize when it looks correct or when it looks bad and adjust it accordingly.

Vanguard 15: While, admittedly, this is not a boat sailed often in college regattas; it is a favorite off-season dinghy of many college sailors, including myself. V-15s are an excellent opportunity for sailors who want to keep their skills sharp when they’re not in season, as the class has most of its regattas over the summer months or in the winter. They are a lot like college dinghies, but they also introduce some aspects of higher performance dinghies with their adjustable stay-masters. The biggest challenge for crews in a V-15 is the hull shape. It is extremely shallow, so foot and body placement can be tough for those who are used to the shape of a 420 or FJ that has plenty of legroom. Unfortunately, if there is light wind this means a lot of squatting and a lot of balance, but with enough practice you can find a spot that is comfortable for your legs, and this spot will be different for every crew. The hull is also wide, so it can be difficult to cross without the leverage that the deeper-hulled boats offer for your legs. The best way I’ve found to solve this problem is to hook my foot under the far hiking strap instead of the near one, that way my body covers more distance and I don’t lose my balance as easily. Also these boats have dagger boards instead of centerboards, so extra planning downwind to handle a board that you can’t lower with a line will often pay to avoid getting stuck with the board up.

Other: This may seem like an odd category, but there are actually boats in college sailing that you will find in one venue and probably never see again once you graduate. The Larks at Tufts and Fireflies or Techs at MIT are a few examples, as well as the new Collegiate 420 that will soon replace the old boat we love so dearly. These boats often times cannot be mastered, unless you go to the school where they have them and practice them everyday. However, there are things you can think about before stepping into any dinghy to help you figure out the best way to crew in them. Do a couple of tacks as soon as you get on the water with your skipper. Is it more comfortable to sit forward or backwards, based on where the jib leads are? Should you do a really hard roll tack like you would in a 420, or do the boats require more of a load and flatten technique? These are questions that you should be asking yourself and your skipper before any race starts, so that you can be prepared for quick maneuvers during a race. Also, some boats have their rigs set up differently from what you can be used to with 420s and FJs. For example, both Larks and Fireflies have the vang rigged to the skipper for easy adjustments and the centerboard rigged so that you hoist it close to the mast. This is why, if you have never sailed or even seen a particular boat before, it is important you try to rig it yourself so that you can become at least a little familiar with it.

The bottom line is, any boat can go from alien and awkward to (pardon the pun) a breeze to sail with enough practice. If you are faced with a boat you are not comfortable in, make sure to try and get lots of maneuvers in during a practice, especially in the areas you are most uncomfortable, like jibes or tacks. If it is a situation where you will not get to practice in the boat until the regatta, then communication between you and your co ach and you and your skipper can go a long way to cohesive sailing in an unfamiliar boat. 

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Header image - 420 Sailboat: A Comprehensive Review

420 Sailboat: An In-depth Analysis

The 420 sailboat, a classic in the sailing world, is known for its versatility and performance. Loved by both beginners and seasoned sailors alike, this craft offers a unique sailing experience. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into its features, functionality, and overall value.

The History of the 420 Sailboat

The 420 sailboat has been a staple in the boating community since its creation in 1959. Designed by Christian Maury, this French-made dinghy has gained a reputation for being a top choice for youth training, high school and collegiate sailing, and even for competitive events. Over the decades, it has proven its worth and stood the test of time, making it a much-loved choice for many sailors.

Design and Construction

When it comes to design and construction, the 420 sailboat is nothing short of impressive. Its 4.2 meters of length coupled with a light hull weight of around 80 kg allows for easier transportation and storage. The boat's construction materials have evolved over time, with modern versions often featuring a durable fiberglass hull and an aluminum mast.

Sails and Rigging

The 420's sailplan consists of a mainsail, a jib, and a spinnaker. This configuration offers a balanced performance in various wind conditions, allowing sailors to efficiently manage and adjust sails as necessary.

Performance on Water

The 420 sailboat's performance is noteworthy, as it strikes a perfect balance between speed, stability, and maneuverability. Its responsiveness, combined with the simplicity of its handling, makes it an ideal boat for a wide range of skill levels.

Handling and Maneuverability

The 420's handling and maneuverability is where this vessel truly shines. Its lightweight design and efficient hull shape allow for quick tacking and gybing, while the adjustable rigging system enables sailors to modify the boat's performance according to changing conditions.

Comfort and Safety

Although primarily designed for competitive sailing, the 420 sailboat doesn't compromise on comfort and safety. The cockpit is spacious enough to accommodate two people comfortably, while the hull's robust construction and the boat's inherent stability offer peace of mind to the crew on board.

The 420 sailboat is truly a gem in the sailing world. With its enduring design, commendable performance, and solid build, it promises an enjoyable sailing experience. Whether you're a beginner looking for a reliable boat to learn on, or an experienced sailor seeking a versatile craft for competitive racing, the 420 sailboat certainly warrants consideration.

Price and Value

When it comes to value for money, the 420 sailboat stands tall among its competitors. While the initial investment may seem significant, its longevity, performance capabilities, and the enduring demand in the second-hand market make it a worthwhile investment for the serious sailor.

Initial Cost

The price of a new 420 sailboat can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer, equipment included, and the specific model. As of 2023, you can expect to pay anywhere between $8,000 to $12,000 for a new 420 sailboat.

Maintenance and Operating Costs

The 420 sailboat's maintenance costs are relatively low compared to other similar vessels. Due to its robust construction and simple design, regular cleaning and occasional rigging adjustments are generally all that's needed to keep a 420 in top shape. Additionally, being a small sailing dinghy, it doesn't incur mooring fees and its transportation costs are minimal.

Resale Value

One of the standout aspects of the 420 sailboat is its strong resale value. Given its popularity in sailing schools and racing events, there is always demand in the second-hand market. Well-maintained boats often retain a significant percentage of their original value, making the 420 a financially sound choice.

Final Thoughts

The 420 sailboat is a true classic that continues to hold its own in the contemporary sailing world. With its perfect balance of performance, durability, and value, it offers a versatile sailing solution for enthusiasts of all skill levels.

In conclusion, the 420 sailboat ticks all the right boxes for both recreational and competitive sailing. From its clever design and excellent performance to its safety features and overall value, it offers everything a sailor could ask for. For those in the market for a reliable, efficient, and enjoyable sailing vessel, the 420 sailboat is indeed a worthy contender.

Author image - Poppy Harvey-Fitzgerald

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Zim cfj - class approved club flying junior sailboat.

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Zim Sailing's CFJ sailboat is approved by the CFJ class association. The CFJ (also known as Club Flying Junior) one design class is very active on the west coast and raced with a spinnaker. The CFJ is agile and has the ability to sail in a wide range of conditions. The Zim CFJ has the same proven, durable lineage as our C420, ensuring a quality, competitive boat.

CFJ BOAT CONSTRUCTION

  • Toughened resin and Plexus bonds for superior strength and durability
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  • North Sails class approved mainsail, jib, and spinnaker 
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Length: 13.3'

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420's or fj's

Cruiser Wiki

 
09-10-2012, 15:41  
of the Michigan tech sailing team. We are currently expanding at a rapid rate and are in need of more . We prefer 420's or FJ's because that is what we in college but we are looking at other kinds of too. If you would like to sell or donate (donations are tax deductible) any kind of to our team, please me at cacastel(at)mtu.edu our website is
 
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COMMENTS

  1. 420 vs FJ racing

    420 vs FJ racing. Jump to Latest ... that being said, i raced fjs and 470s (yes i know..420 is the post boat)..however given neither will use chutes or traps, i think the fj might be slightly faster.. why..i dunno but, sailing any w/o traps and kites takes most of the fun factor out of the equation.

  2. UGA Sailing: FJ vs. 420

    University of Georgia Sailing Chalk Talk 5: FJ vs 420Welcome to our new video series! Our growth has been exponential and in efforts to reach as many people ...

  3. An Insider's Guide to the Boats of College Sailing

    Firefly is a British University boat that has been introduced to American college sailing with some modifications. It is a deep hulled dinghy that suits light wind shifty venues and requires quick crew work.

  4. 420 Sailboats: Exploring the Thrill of Dinghy Sailing

    Learn about the origins, design, and characteristics of the 420 sailboat, a popular dinghy for racing and cruising. Discover the advantages, challenges, and skills of dinghy sailing, and compare it with other sailing dinghy types.

  5. Do's and Don'ts for Roll Tacking 420's and FJ's

    This is more effective in a hard chine boat (e.g. Optimist), because the corner will dig into the water, and keep the boat from sliding. In a soft chine boat (rounded bottom), like a 420 or FJ, the centerboard kicks to windward as the mast heels to leeward, causing the boat to slide sideways and slow down.

  6. PDF Club FJ Tuning Guide

    when you're sailing. Only adjust this between races! Jib Trim: The jib pulls the FJ forward, while the mainsail keeps it pointing.(UNLIKE a 420 where the sails' roles are backwards: in a 420, it's the jib that points the boat and the mainsail that provides the power) A properly trimmed jib is critical for fast boat speed.

  7. Crewing Guide to College Dinghies

    Therefore, the biggest thing for crews who are used to sailing club boats to get used to is the boat handling. Roll tacking a 420, in particular, can be a deadly weapon and can guarantee good boat speed especially in conditions where the wind is limited. ... FJs are usually the boat of choice. Crewing in an FJ is vastly different from crewing ...

  8. 420vsfj (which one is faster) without chutes and traps : r/sailing

    All else equal, an FJ is faster than a 420, thanks to its longer waterline (as well as other factors including sleeker blades and more responsiveness to steering) Source: I'm a college sailor who's raced plenty in both from high school through now

  9. Comparing Roll Tacks in the FJ and 420

    Lastly, how the crew crosses the boat differs in the 420 and FJ. In the 420, the crew crosses facing forward, and the skipper will look to them to coordinate the timing of the roll. In the FJ, the crew actually sits backwards, watching the skipper to coordinate the roll. This is done because of the way the crew's feet cross in the different ...

  10. 420 Sailboat: A Comprehensive Review

    Learn about the 420 sailboat, a classic and versatile dinghy for sailing enthusiasts. Find out its history, design, sails, handling, comfort, price, and resale value.

  11. PDF 420 Racing Guide

    Ullman Sails 420 Racing Guide - V2.0 4 of 4 Sailing the Boat Upwind The 420 is most efficient when sailed as flat as possible. Excessive heel causes leeway which is slow. The skipper must work the helm and the sail controls to keep the boat at a constant angle of heel while the crew trapeze as hard as possible.

  12. 420 (dinghy)

    The 420 is a fiberglass boat with a bermuda rig, spinnaker and trapeze, designed for youth training and team racing. It is an International class recognized by World Sailing, and has a history of success in various events since 1973.

  13. r/sailing on Reddit: Thinking about buying a 420 class boat, any

    Think about a Wayfarer. They're heavier than the 420, but faster (D-PN for 420 is 98 vs 91.6 for the Wayfarer), more stable, more comfortable, and as well suited for racing as it is for cruising. Better all-around boat.

  14. Back to basics. : r/sailing

    The JY15 has more upwind sail area (135 vs 110 sq ft) and slightly higher aspect foils. Versus a c420 without a trap or spin a JY15 is slightly faster around a windward leeward course. Against a 420 with a trap the JY is still faster upwind until the 420's crew can get out on the wire. With a chute the 420 would be much faster off the breeze.

  15. Flying junior sailboat good beginner boat?

    All replies are right on the money.The FJ was our family's first sailboat 50 years ago and I am still an active sailor. Moving a 46 foot Choi Lee from Tampa to Key West this weekend. We almost lost the boat because we did not realize the rubber expansion discs at the end of both water tight flotation compartments had dry rotted. When I capsized the boat the third or fourth time , the boat ...

  16. Club 420 v. International 420

    The Club 420 was initially built by Vanguard to provide a robust institutional boat, in similar fashion as the FJ. I imagine all this happened sometime in the mid 70s. TheBoathouse ... Sep 26, 2005 #12 the club 420 is much more solid of a boat, and will definetly be more competitive longer, but when both are brand new, i have found that the i ...

  17. I'm interested to hear your opinions regarding the Vanguard 15 vs. the 420

    The steering and weight distribution of the v15 is also much more similiar to other dinghys (laser, fj, etc.) so it will be much easier to switch classes if desired. ... v15, hands down. But like others in here, I'm biased from college sailing towards a non-club racing 420 history. But, if you did get a club 420 and found that you were ...

  18. CFJ Sailboat

    Zim CFJ - Class Approved Club Flying Junior Sailboat. Click Here to Request a Quote! Zim Sailing's CFJ sailboat is approved by the CFJ class association. The CFJ (also known as Club Flying Junior) one design class is very active on the west coast and raced with a spinnaker. The CFJ is agile and has the ability to sail in a wide range of conditions.

  19. INTERNATIONAL FJ

    As of 1980 the name was officially changed to INTERNATIONAL FJ. First built of Fiberglass in 1960. ... (100% fore triangle) and Disp/length ratios to create a guide to probable boat performance vs. other boats of comparable size. For boats of the same length, generally the higher the S#, the lower the PHRF. Under 2 - Slow, under powered. 2-3 ...

  20. FJ Sailing tips : r/sailing

    Don't pinch. FJs point higher than 420s in general, but pinching kills your speed even more than in a 420. If it's too windy ease both sails in the puffs instead of feathering. Also, don't oversheet the jib -- FJ jib leads are much further inboard, so if you strap it tight like a 420 it closes the slot between jib and main and kills your speed.

  21. Want to Buy: 420's or fj's

    We are currently expanding at a rapid rate and are in need of more boats . We prefer 420's or FJ's because that is what we race . Portal; Forums. Visit our Popular Forums . The Fleet; Monohull Sailboats ... Cruisers & Sailing Forums > Cruising Business & Commerce > General Classifieds (no boats) > Classifieds Archive: Want To Buy: 420's or fj's ...

  22. FJ class boat good for an almost 60 Novice sailor? : r/sailing

    Sailed both of these competitively for over 30 years and wiped out exactly zero times. The FJ were sailed collegiately and they did go over and are easy to bring back up. At 60 just thinking a novice isn't interested in the performance of a FJ vs the stability and performance of the others.

  23. does anyone know what the diameter is for a 420 or fj boom?

    /r/Sailing is a place to ask about, share, show, and enjoy all about sailing, sail boat racing, and technical discussions. As long as it is about sailing and civil, it is welcome here. ... The collegiate and Club 420 and FJ both use Dwyer mast sections for both the mast and boom. It is either the Dwyer DM-4 or DM-5 section.