The speed at which one does a gybe all depends on the efficiency of the crew. That said, those who do end for end will tell you that end for end is faster than dip pole, and visa versa. I started doing dip pole gybes on my previous boat, an Ericson 2-30 (1000 square foot spinnaker). I still do gybes that way on my present boat. It is a safer way to go, since the pole never gets detached from the mast.
Regarding line size for the guy: When you close reach or beam reach with a spinnaker, you will have better control of the pole position by using a reaching strut, and there will be less pressure on the guy, so you can get by with smaller diameter line. I use 3/8" Sta-set(X?), and don't have a problem with line stretch. Alan Bergen C&C 35 Mk III Thirsty Rose City YC Portland, OR
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