Sorry for the delayed resp. I like the Boomkicker because I have never liked any of my topping lifts, be they rope or wire (vinyl coated of course). Sailing in light air is frustrating and having to tack a topping lift is annoying. The Boomkicker allows one to pick the boom "elevation"-- and not be concerned with tacking it etc. If I need an adjustment one uses the vang which is the default control anyway- no need to loosen one to tension the other or vice versa. The BoomKicker is not perfect but an elegant piece and very well executed in both design and materials. NO financial interest-just my opinion and worth every penny. Have Fun and if you live somewhere where the temp is below 100 -Go Sailing. Gary O. M-17 # 316A Blue Goose (or is that Spruce??) Stick and Stone Technology Inst. 'got welding rod?'