My concerns are ... Ball lock pins (with the thumb button release) are hollow and not as strong as a solid pin. The ball on the ball locks sometimes stick or even fall out.
I always say "quick release" is not something I want to hold my mast up. These are better for mainsheet systems, tillers etc.
Maybe do some practice with the rings. They aren't too tough to use if you know how. You can even get a tool for them.
mmiller wrote:
Here are a couple of thoughts on the ring and pins. They are definitely more secure, so if you can learn to work with them they would be better. They don't require special tools either. The small rings are stiff, so perhaps just a small blade driver or fingernail file to open may make them easier.
Pry open with your thumbnail. Place the nail in the ring within 1/8-1/4 inch of the end to pry open. push your thumb and forefinger in opposite directions to pry open. Slip onto the clevis pin and spin on.
Pry open with the clevis pin. Use the pin to wedge the ring open.
Pry open with a small tool.
There is a tool that holds them open for installation. I think fishing shops may have the tool. Someone told me they use them on fishing gear.
Pry open with your thumbnail. Place the nail in the ring within 1/8-1/4 inch of the end to pry open. push your thumb and forefinger in opposite directions to pry open. Slip onto the clevis pin and spin on.
Pry open with the clevis pin. Use the pin to wedge the ring open.
Pry open with a small tool.
There is a tool that holds them open for installation. I think fishing shops may have the tool. Someone told me they use them on fishing gear.