Description
Schaefer Little Hawk Mk 2 Wind Indicator | Boat Supply Store
For single-handed dinghy sailors requiring immediate wind direction data without looking aloft, this wind indicator offers a critical visual reference. Its 16.5cm vane arm provides a clear indication of apparent wind, crucial for optimizing sail trim during tacking and gybing maneuvers. Designed for mounting at gooseneck height, it ensures effortless readability for Laser sailors and those operating similar small craft, delivering precise upwind and downwind performance feedback.
Key Features
- Easily visible wind direction reference mounted at gooseneck height
- Engineered specifically for small, single-handed dinghies
- Provides rapid and precise wind direction readings
- Features a secure, adjustable bracket for straightforward installation and detachment
- Aluminum support rod is bendable to any angle for optimal positioning
- Allows for tool-free removal for secure onboard storage
- Enhances sail trim accuracy for improved performance
- Ideal for Laser sailors and similar class boats
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Vane Arm length | 16.5cm (6.5") |
| Overall height | 19cm (7.5") |
| Weight | 28 grams |
| Brand | Schaefer Marine |
Who This Is For
Sailors of small, single-handed dinghies, particularly Laser sailors, who need a convenient and accurate wind indicator at eye level. This instrument enhances safety and performance by providing immediate wind direction data without requiring masthead observation.
How It Compares
| Feature | Schaefer Little Hawk Mk 2 Wind Indicator | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting Location | Gooseneck height | Masthead |
| Vane Arm Length | 16.5cm (6.5") | — |
| Target Boat Size | Small dinghies, single-handed | Various sailboats |
| Ease of Removal for Storage | Tool-free | Typically less capable |
Common Concerns Answered
Is the Schaefer Little Hawk Mk 2 durable enough for regular use on a small dinghy?
Constructed by Schaefer Marine, a reputable manufacturer, the Little Hawk Mk 2 features a robust aluminum support rod and secure mounting system designed for the rigors of dinghy sailing, though extreme force could potentially cause damage to the rod.
How does the gooseneck-height mounting compare to traditional masthead wind indicators for small dinghies?
Mounting at gooseneck height offers a unique advantage for dinghies by providing an at-eye-level view of wind direction, eliminating the need to look up at the masthead, which enhances safety and allows for more immediate sail trim adjustments on small craft.
Will this wind indicator be too small for optimal visibility on larger sailboats?
The Schaefer Little Hawk Mk 2 is specifically designed for smaller single-handed dinghies and may be too compact for effective visibility from a significant distance on very large vessels or for helmsmen far from the masthead.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Schaefer Little Hawk Mk 2 mount on a dinghy?
It utilizes a secure, adjustable bracket that can be easily attached and detached without tools, allowing for flexible placement at gooseneck height on the boom.
Can the Schaefer Little Hawk Mk 2 be used on larger sailboats?
While primarily designed for small, single-handed dinghies like Lasers, its effectiveness on larger sailboats is limited due to its compact size and gooseneck-height mounting, which might not provide sufficient visibility from a distance.
What is the advantage of mounting the wind indicator at gooseneck height?
Mounting at gooseneck height provides an immediate, at-eye-level reference for wind direction, which is critical for quick sail trim adjustments and improved situational awareness for dinghy sailors, especially when tacking or gybing.
Is the Schaefer Little Hawk Mk 2 easy to remove for storage?
Yes, the product features a tool-free removal mechanism, allowing for quick detachment and safe storage when not in use or during transport.
What makes the Schaefer Little Hawk Mk 2 popular with Laser sailors?
Its specific design for small, single-handed dinghies, combined with the convenient gooseneck-height mounting and accurate wind indication at eye level, directly addresses the needs of Laser sailors for precise sail control and enhanced safety.
