Rig & sails
What does Cutter mean?
A cutter is commonly a single-masted rig arranged to carry two headsails, with an inner staysail and an outer headsail.
Why it matters when choosing a sailboat
The divided sail plan can offer useful options, but it adds sails, stays and handling choices. An inner forestay may affect how an overlapping headsail passes through a tack. Practical operation depends on the actual rig and deck layout.
A practical example
A cruising cutter may use its staysail when a larger outer headsail is reduced or put away.
A question to ask before buying
Is the inner stay permanent or removable, and how are its sails and any supporting rigging handled?
Related sailboat terms
Put the term to work.
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