Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M Review

Let’s Talk About Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M

The Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M is a specialized tool designed to provide accurate wind direction information for smaller catamarans. Manufactured by Schaefer Marine, this wind indicator stands out due to its optimized design for catamarans, specifically those without spinnakers, ensuring maximum visibility and performance. I was immediately drawn to its unique mounting solution and reputation for durability, hoping it would solve a longstanding problem on my own catamaran.

My need arose from a frustrating lack of reliable wind information while sailing my small catamaran. Traditional wind vanes were either too large, cumbersome, or simply not designed for the specific dynamics of a catamaran’s rig. I longed for a lightweight, accurate indicator that wouldn’t interfere with my sailing, but would provide clear data for optimal trimming.

Unboxing the Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk, my initial impression was one of quality and thoughtful design. The Vane Arm felt substantial, promising durability, while the aluminum support rod exuded strength without adding unnecessary weight. The quick mount clip also seemed ingeniously simple, promising easy rigging and de-rigging, a huge plus for someone who frequently trailers their boat.

I considered other options like the Windex 10 Sport and the Davis Instruments Wind Vane, but neither seemed as purpose-built for catamarans as the Cat Hawk. The Windex seemed too generic, lacking the specific mounting solution for a forestay bridle, while the Davis vane appeared less robust. The Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk seemed like the Goldilocks choice: just right for my needs.

My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of cautious optimism. The design looked promising, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world conditions. Would it live up to the Schaefer Marine name and solve my wind direction woes?

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M was on a breezy day on a local lake known for its shifty winds. I mounted it easily to the forestay bridle, thanks to the intuitive quick mount clip. The height was perfect, offering unobstructed visibility from anywhere on the boat.

The Cat Hawk performed admirably, even in the gusty conditions. It responded quickly to changes in wind direction, providing a clear and accurate indication of the apparent wind angle. I found myself making subtle adjustments to the sail trim based on its feedback, resulting in noticeably improved boat speed and pointing ability. The wet spray did not affect the vane.

The only initial issue was a slight learning curve in interpreting the reference arms. It took a few tacks to dial in the optimal upwind angle on the reference arms, but after that, it became second nature. Once set, the upwind and downwind angles were a breeze to manage.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M continues to impress. The Vane Arm shows no signs of UV degradation, and the aluminum support rod remains sturdy and corrosion-free. It still looks and performs as well as the day I installed it.

The Cat Hawk has proven remarkably durable, withstanding everything from gentle breezes to near-gale conditions. The jewel bearing ensures smooth and responsive movement, even after prolonged exposure to salt spray and sun. The Schaefer Marine quality is clear.

Maintenance has been minimal; a quick rinse with fresh water after each sail is all it takes to keep the Cat Hawk in top condition. The quick-release clip also makes it easy to remove and store the indicator during periods of inactivity, further extending its lifespan. A squirt of WD-40 on the bearing once or twice a season keeps it swinging freely.

Compared to previous attempts at using generic wind vanes, the Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk is a game-changer. Its accuracy, durability, and catamaran-specific design have significantly improved my sailing experience, making it a worthwhile investment. It’s a night-and-day difference in performance and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M

Specifications

The Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and suitability for small catamarans:

• Designed for Non-Spinnaker Catamarans up to 8M: Specifically tailored for smaller catamarans without spinnakers. This ensures optimal size and sensitivity for this class of boat.
• Forestay Bridle Mount: The unique mounting system is designed to attach to the forestay bridle, placing it in an ideal location for visibility and minimizing interference with sail handling.
• Hawk Vane Arm: The indicator utilizes the same high-quality Vane Arm as the standard Hawk wind indicator, known for its balance, responsiveness, and durability.
• V Jewel Bearing: Features a V jewel bearing for smooth and accurate wind direction indication, even in light winds.
• UV Protection: The Vane Arm is constructed with UV-resistant materials to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight and prevent degradation.
• Adjustable Reference Arms: Allows for setting reference angles for both upwind and downwind sailing, providing visual cues for optimal sail trim.
• Aluminum Support Rod: The support rod is made of lightweight yet strong aluminum, providing a stable platform for the Vane Arm.
• Quick Mount Clip: Enables quick and easy rigging and de-rigging, facilitating storage and maintenance.
• Manufacturer: Schaefer Marine
• Color: Hawk

These specifications matter because they address the unique challenges of sailing a small catamaran. The forestay bridle mount ensures optimal visibility, while the V jewel bearing guarantees responsiveness. The adjustable reference arms help sailors quickly identify the ideal sailing angles, maximizing performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M excels at providing accurate and reliable wind direction information. Its responsiveness and sensitivity allow for precise sail adjustments, leading to improved boat speed and pointing ability. It’s a real performance enhancer.

The primary strength lies in its ability to provide immediate feedback, allowing sailors to react quickly to changing wind conditions. The adjustable reference arms are also a huge plus, making it easy to maintain optimal sail trim. A minor weakness is the initial learning curve in setting the reference arms, but this is quickly overcome.

The Cat Hawk definitely exceeds my expectations. It’s a simple yet effective tool that has transformed my catamaran sailing experience. It provides immediate and useful data.

Design & Ergonomics

The Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk boasts a well-thought-out design, prioritizing both functionality and durability. The materials are high-quality and the construction is robust.

The weight is minimal, ensuring it doesn’t impact the boat’s performance. The quick mount clip is incredibly user-friendly, making installation and removal a breeze.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cat Hawk is built to last, with UV-resistant materials and a sturdy aluminum support rod. Its simple design and high-quality construction suggest it will provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use. The jewel bearing should be lubricated a couple of times a season to maintain optimal performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M comes ready to install with the necessary hardware. There are no included accessories beyond the mounting clip.

Customization options are limited, but the adjustable reference arms allow for tailoring the indicator to specific sailing styles and conditions. It is compatible with standard Hawk Vane Arms should a replacement ever be needed.

Pros and Cons of Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M?

The Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M is perfect for catamaran sailors who want accurate and reliable wind direction information to improve their sailing performance. It’s ideal for both recreational sailors and those who participate in casual racing.

This product may not be necessary for sailors who only sail in consistently steady winds or who are content with a less precise indication of wind direction. Larger catamarans that utilize a spinnaker may find this model too small.

A masthead fly could be considered a must-have if racing at night to easily see the fly with a headlamp.

Conclusion on Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M

The Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk Wind Indicator f/Non-Spin Catamarans up to 8M is a well-designed and highly effective tool for small catamaran sailors. It provides accurate wind direction information, is built to last, and is easy to install and use.

At $87.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials, performance, and durability. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about improving their catamaran sailing experience.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Schaefer Marine Cat Hawk to any catamaran sailor looking for a reliable and accurate wind indicator. Don’t waste your time with generic wind vanes; get the Cat Hawk and experience the difference!