backstay [R01]: A piece of standing rigging on a model yacht that runs from the mast to either its transom or rear quarter, counteracting the forestay and jib.
It onlytakes a few parts and supplies to make a very effective backstay. The following illustration shows a complete assembly with the hook [R21] attaching to backstay bracket [R02] and the other end attaching to the mast crane [R38].
Bowsie
Hook
Wire
Line
Sleeve (ferrule)
"O" Ring
There is a correct and an incorrect way to assemble a bowsie [R06] and the line [R32] to make adjustment easy. See the article “Threading a Bowsie.”
Sources
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- Bowsie – Select medium and black or red in an appropriate quantity. Available from SAILSetc.
- Bowsie – Pekabe 309 Bowsie
- Cyanoacrylate adhesive (thin) – High quality adhesive – available on Amazon.
- Hook – Multiple choices with our choice linked. Available from SAILSetc.
- Line – Braided fishing line w/abrasive resistant fibers – select 100 lb. rating. Available on Amazon.
- Seamless eye ring – Select the #4 ring – available on Amazon.
- Sleeve – AFW #5 leader sleeve – Available on Amazon.
- Wire – Coated stranded fishing wire (90 lb. test) – available on Amazon.
Related Articles
- “Threading a Bowsie” usvmyg.org. April 2026.
- Pictures from the SAILSetc website that show to right and wrong way to rig a bowsie.
