J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum The Boat, Sails and Equipment Solid Vangs

What is the best solid/rigid boom vang for a J-30?

What Size/model number is best? How much max return force is needed?

Any opinions about the following models?
Spinlock
Hall quick Vang
Garhauer

I'd suggest you include the Boomkicker in your list of possible solid vangs. They do the job for less expense and more reliably (no moving parts). You can get the standard Boomkicker from most chandlers. The rods need to be cut down to fit the boat but its easy. Boomkicker also sells a version just for the J30 with the right length rods to start with. The nice thing about the Boomkicker is that it works with your existing vang. Here's the link to Boomkicker's site.
http://www.boomkicker.com/

Keep in mind that a solid vang is a convenience/safety item, allowing you to eliminate the boom topping lift. Some claim benefit in light air, but don't expect it to make you faster. I have seen successful installations of all three of the units you mention, but would choose the QuickVang. Steer clear of the Performance Vang from Beaverton, OR. While their product is reasonably good and received high marks from Practical Sailor, in my experience, their customer service and support are atrocious! Consider professional installation or be careful with the mast and boom fittings. Your twenty-year old boom vang tang will not hold up the constant push and pull a solid vang.

I have a VangMaster vang. It has served well for 4 years. I think it is lighter than the quickvang and the Garhauer, but probably heavier than the BoomKicker. You can get one with J-30 mounting brackets from Layline.

I would highly reccommend the Boomkicker. Very simple to use, light weight and relatively inexpensive. The only weakness is that it cannot be locked in a set position like some of the true solid vangs.