POINT-7 AC-X 3G 7.5M 2013 TEST REVIEW
POINT-7 AC-X 3G 7.5M 2013 TEST REVIEW
BEST FOR
Great for first-time racers and speed demons alike the AC-X is perfect for burning up the competition and mastering key slalom skills, such as mark rounding, without the waterstarting consequences of a wide-sleeved sail. Excellent pick for driving big boards or big sailors.
RECOMMENDATION
Find the downhaul sweetspot and then tune with outhaul alone.
BRAND POSITIONING
As used on the PWA tour, Point-7 claim their no-cam slalom sail has “top speed that will outrun most cambered freerace sails”. The AC-X 3G sits between the HF freeride and the AC-K 3-cam, that’s also derived from their PWA race-winning AC-1 2K13 ‘Terminator’ line.
OVERVIEW
Outline: Seven batten semi-compact frame with a wide head, leech cut-out, dropped clew and low-cut foot.
Build Quality: In addition to the weight savings made from having no cams, the AC-X is much lighter than expected compared to other race and speed-oriented models of theirs that we’ve tested. There’s plenty of detail such as a brass roller downhaul pulleys and profile-enhancing two-piece battens – which are alternately placed on each side to even the balance.
Rigging and Tuning: Using a 460 100% mast the process is quick and easy with one optimum downhaul setting and the draft then best controlled using outhaul from neutral to a few cm of positive dependant on the conditions. Negative outhaul worked on some deeper runs but for upwind control keep it slightly positive.
PERFORMANCE
Low End & Acceleration: Hook-in, sheet-in and you’re off! In terms of early planing and acceleration the AC-X was in a league of its own. Amongst our testers, even a 15 kg weight advantage was instantly eliminated in marginal winds.
Top End: In flat water the speed advantage is outrageous, so come breaking waves, rolling swell and chop, the top speed potential all comes down to nerve and whether you’d feel more comfortable on something a little more throwabout?
Gybing & Manoeuvres: Easy to ditch power approaching corners – duck gybes are even pretty easy – and the batten rotation is slick and smooth. Again the light feel plays a part in gybing pleasure.
Handling: Despite all the draft and power the AC-X is surprisingly light in-the-hands and responsive with a forward and middle pull. The boom feels short despite being average length due to the dropped clew not extending too far to the leech.
THE VERDICT
Pure unadulterated power. The AC-X is a raw, beast of a rotational sail that defies belief. Light and easy, Point-7 have discovered a magic formula that combines relentless drive with effortless gybing and control.
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