As you can guess from previous posts I need a new 490 mast
Second hand or new?
If Second Hand - how old or how many usages?
NP X6, Sailworks Joystick, North or Naish
What % carbon - 60/80?
What he ^ said.
Be careful buying second hand, only purchase from shop and get some cover for if it snaps in first week. Problem with carbon masts, they don't take a big knock to result in structural failure.
If you are going to a general mast to suit most sails I really like the North 85% masts. Without the ensuing s***fight on what masts have what curves mine seems to be pretty constant and has worked well with quite a few different sails. They seem to be built that bit tougher (walls seem slightly thicker than say the naish) and also they are drop shape which helps rigging/cam rotation etc etc. Also if you ever get an even bigger sail you can then just purchase the extender instead of a whole new mast.
Sorry guys
Sail to use on the new mast - Gaastra GTX 8.5mtr IMCS 29. Used a Sailworks 490 100% carbon previously before bottom developed a crack. CAnnot afford another 100%
In Melbourne the X6 seems to be the cheapest but not sure if its ok for the price?
X6 is a poor match for that sail, too flex top and not suitable.
The Gaastra Freeride mast would be the first choice, 75% carbon, not sure if SHQ stock them but should be able to get one?
Powerex Free 80% is also in the ball park with bend curve . Try RPS for that.
