Okay, my sailing education continues - this forum is quite simply awesome.
Grand Lake OK in 10-15 kts - gusting to low 20s (Thursday Oct 3rd, 2013). Was sailing solo with double reefed main alone and using the jib on and off (until I trashed the snap shackle on a tack :0).
Very educational.... I think I need a bigger vang. I still have the midboom - no traveler - cleating mainsheet setup, but with a 3/1 vang. I have avoided installing the traveler or going to a bridal across the back because I like the open space the mid boom provides and I go family sailing on occasion.
So, looking all over the forum, the vang appears to be the "swiss army knife" piece of gear for the DS1.
1. Crank it down to flatten sail and prevent boom lift. This helps pointing and power heading into the wind.
2. Leave it cranked down when off wind to reduce sail twist and keep the top 1/3rd pulling BUT get off of it QUICK if you get overpowered and start healing despite your mega hiking efforts (this should allow the top 1/3 to twist - spilling wind - depowering).
3. When you bury the rail and dump sail, LOOSE the Vang to allow the boom tip to rise before it hits the water or you go for a swim.
4. In light wind, going towards DDW, slack it up with everything else to get a full sail shape.(not as sure about this one).
Is this a good basic summary for my laminated in boat "instruction card?"
Also, I finally rigged my spinnaker up
can't wait for a <5 kt day to try it out.