For those with Gaff Rigs who reef frequently, here is a problem and a possible solution. Problem: When you reef the sail perhaps two turns around the boom, you will find that it is no longer possible to pull the gaff completely vertical and up tight against the mast. The gaff is usually left about 12-18 inches away from the mast. This dramatically alters the sail shape particularly up at the top of the sail on the leech. With the gaff not vertical, the leech opens up dumping a large amount of air. This also allows the boom to drop very low making it a danger and forcing the crew to keep their heads way down on all tacks and jibes. Solution: As Calum mentioned earlier, when reefing, put a tuck (of about 6 inches) into the sail at the end of the boom when you start the first reef. This takes up the slack of the sail and pulls the boom higher. To bring the gaff up tight against the mast, add a second 'mast hound' or 'boom bail' to your gaff about 12-18 inches above your existing attachment point on the gaff.

By following the above recommendations, you should be able to keep your boom horizontal and high enough above the crew, you can pull your gaff in tightly against the mast and you can then flatten the sail to reduce the power in the sail under heavy winds.