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Installing masts

S

steven

Joined
Nov 27, 2021
Messages
64
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88

I know this is probably a stupid question, but I feel I need to know before installing a mast.
Should I install the jibs and booms on the mast before installing it?
I believe that's what they are called.
Thanks for the help everybody.
 
Hi Steven, I have only been through one build process so can only comment from that perspective. My build was the Bluenose II schooner which had two masts (fore and main) with booms and gaffs. I attached the booms and gaffs to the masts after the masts were stepped into the hull without any real issues. I did however install all the hardware (blocks, etc) on all of the masts, booms and gaffs before installing any of the spars. I think that would have been quite tricky if the masts, booms and gaffs were already fixed in place.

Hope this helps :)

Mark
 
Thanks for the reply
I also install the hardware as well.
This is my second build and I am trying to learn as much as I can because I am looking at intermediate ships.
Thanks again
 
I was just asked myself the same question today, the instructions for my Constructo Albatross kit reads as if I need to secure the yards, booms and gaffs to the masts BEFORE installing, which doesn't sound correct. It has been a decade or more since I did any ship modeling and I am at that stage when I am installing all of the rigging hardware or tackle on both of the masts and was reading ahead a bit in the instructions and was not sure of how to proceed. My instincts say step both masts into the model, ensure that the angle of the masts are accurate and the mast is perpendicular to the keel, THEN install the yards, booms and gaffs onto those stepped masts. I have choosen not to rig the included sails in the kit as they are only printed on the sail material and not cut out. I do not have a sewing machine to do the hem and etc. I guess I should look into getting one, the OcCre kits that I have all have finished and darkened sails, which I will use. I did use the printed sails on a few of my past builds, Santa Maria for one.

Any insight answers would be welcome.

Thank You all.
 
I just remembered my small library of modeling books I bought decades ago and went through Mastini's excellent (IMHO) book on 'Ship Modeling Simplified'; Part III Masting and Rigging laid out all of the steps to do what I just asked. Thanks for answering if you did. I really have to remember I do have lots of ship model refernce books to puruse through.
 
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