mast splicing

[Brian Duff]

more important (IMO) than the fastener type, splice plate taper, or splice location, be sure that the mating ends of the two extrusions being spliced are a perfect fit. The ends must be square and true. The rig will not tune straight or bear compression properly if they joints are not perfect. take the time here to get it right. I spent 5 hours once until I was happy. Oh to have a large chop saw for masts !

Most mast splices are not glued, I am the only rigger I know that does this. My thought is that there are no disadvantages to the glue, but the possible advantage of a more even transition of stress is worth the effort of the gluing process. It is not necessary to use adhesives.

Flathead or Oval head screws are stronger because of the less dramatic angle at the bottom of the head to the shank of the screw, (they also offer less resistance to wind, and look better).