Which component supports the forestay and backstay of luffing jibs and their associated reeving?

• A. Jib mast or jib strut
• B. Boom base
• C. Counterweight
• D. Sheave block

Answer: (A)

In a luffing jib, the forestay and backstay must be anchored to a sturdy, central support that also provides a path for the reeving lines. The jib mast or jib strut serves this role: it offers a solid mounting point for both stays and houses the blocks and sheaves that guide and tension the reeving system. This dual function keeps the stays properly supported under load as the jib luffs in and out.

The other parts don’t fulfill both roles. The boom base mainly supports the boom and its reeving, not the forestay/backstay. A counterweight is used for balance and does not provide stay support. A sheave block is a pulley device used in the reeving path, but it doesn’t supply the primary support for the stays themselves.