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In winds over 20, the sail tends to get propped against the stays (giving it shape) and will still contain too much torque and power so I use a two stage approach... I let out the sail just to start my turn (and keep from capsizing in a reach position) and as the wind starts to dig the bow of my boat into the water I pull the mainsheet back in so the sail is tighter and not catching as much wind.
Nice technique! I wish we had more over 20 winds here in which to practice. Everything changes when you are sailing in that kind of air. It's a whole different gear and set of dynamics.
In heavy air depowering is the trick and it is hard to learn. I have not got many of the fine points yet.
The sail does get propped on the stays and it does make for way too much power. Plus, the waves as well as the wind are usually going to drive the nose around fast as you spin the bow around.
Even with the traveler, I have found that you cannot spill enough wind to depower when on a reach because of the shrouds. Additionally, I was tripping the traveler cleat by accident so I have put it on a separate line now.
Also, I was using a smaller salsa line for the mainsheet and in heavy air, it is a pain to grip. I switched back to the stock line and it is much easier to handle. Plus, I needed gloves.
Also, I moved the mainsheet cleat into the upper angled position so it was easier to uncleat the mainsheet faster. There are three settings. I may move it back to the middle position as I experiment...
Recently in 15 mph wind, I flipped the boat on a jibe because I couldn't release the cleat and then stopped moving to the other side of the boat to unhook it. The sail flipped over and I was suddenly sitting on the downwind side looking up at the sky. Sad feeling as it went all the way over.
One thing I will add is a short line with a loop tied off the front crossbar to put my foot into and make the hike back up onto the tramp easier. Jumping back onto the boat is like being at the side of a swimming pool and then using both arms only to boost up out of the pool. Takes good upper body strength. The loop would be like a ladder...