A self-tacking jib makes tacking much easier, and single-handed sailors in particular appreciate this simplification on the cross. However, retrofitting the necessary rail is not easy. This is because specially manufactured brackets are required to attach them to the deck. With the Universal Jib Bracket, or Loop-UJB for short, from Kohlhoff, this is now set to change. The base can be adjusted as required and the rail is simply clipped on. Three of the Universal Jib Brackets are recommended for attaching the self-tacking jib rail, one at each end of the rail and one in the centre.
The base made of anodised aluminium is screwed to the deck, the support is movable and consists of a carbon fibre tube. This must be ordered in the appropriate length. The guide rail of the self-tacking jib is slid over a stainless steel plate on the upper part of the base and tightened using a threaded rod.
According to the manufacturer, the Universal Jib Bracket is suitable for boats up to 25 feet in length. The base costs 113 euros per piece.
Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik
