Buying New Sails

Hi all

I've been sailing for about 2 1/2 years and need to pick up a smaller sail (currently have an 07 Severne Powedrive 5.4) to get into higher wind gybing and more complex manoeuvers.

Looking at spending $400-$500 as I'd also like to pick up an rdm later this season. Currently looking at a Hot Sails Maui 07 SO and Ezzy Wave SE 2008 or FreeWave 2009 (this one is $620 but i'd still consider). All seem to be well reinforced (they will definately be taking punishment) reasonably priced, and compatible with current and future gear.

I don't have any experience with these manufacturers, could anyone offer an opinion or alternatives?

Agree with Mark, a couple of months ago I picked up an 07 4.5 Severne Blade in good nic out of the WA Quokka for $220. Maybe give 2nd Wind or Windforce a try if you choose to go this way (a smaller Gator or Blade would probably be a good step down from a 5.4 Powerdrive, I think superceded 08 4.7 Gators were selling for around $430 a while ago). Also brought used 400 & 430 Ezzy Hookipa rdm's around the same time which appear to be bend curve compatible with the majority of recent sails up to around 6.0. The bonus to going with Ezzy rdm's is that you can 'mix n' match' different length bases and tops (by buying the halves individually) which means that if you have, say 4.5 & 5.4 Severnes, then you only need to get one 400 base and one 430 top to suit both sails (i.e. overall length of mast would be 415cm).