Leg-of-mutton sail facts for kids
A leg-of-mutton sail is a special type of sail that looks like a triangle. It's used on boats, especially smaller ones like canoes. This sail is attached to a long pole called a spar, which is placed horizontally (flat) on the boat's mast. It helps the boat move forward by catching the wind.
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What is a Leg-of-Mutton Sail?
A leg-of-mutton sail is shaped like a triangle. It's set up so it runs from the front to the back of the boat, which is called a fore-and-aft direction. Unlike some other sails that use a heavy pole called a boom at the bottom, the leg-of-mutton sail uses its spar mounted high up.
Why is it Different?
The main difference is that it doesn't have a boom at the bottom. This is a big advantage for sailors!
- Better Visibility: Without a boom, the person steering the boat (the helmsman) can see much better. There's nothing blocking their view.
- Safer Sailing: Booms can swing around and hit someone's head, which can be dangerous. Since the leg-of-mutton sail doesn't have a boom, it's much safer.
How is it Used?
Because of its simple design and safety features, the leg-of-mutton sail is a favorite choice for small boats. You'll often see it on:
- Small, simple boats like puddle ducks.
- Different kinds of canoes.
Leg-of-Mutton vs. Spritsail
The leg-of-mutton sail is quite similar to another type of sail called a spritsail. However, there are a few key differences:
- A spritsail can be square or have four corners, while the leg-of-mutton always has three (it's triangular).
- In a spritsail, the spar is often mounted diagonally (at a slant). For a leg-of-mutton sail, the spar is always mounted horizontally (flat).
