How to Rig The Holt Laser Kicker System

In the world of competitive Dinghy Sailing, few boat classes are as physically demanding or as technically nuanced as the ILCA (formerly known as the Laser). Because the boat is a "strict one-design", sailors cannot simply buy a faster hull or a better mast to gain an advantage. Instead, the "winning" edge comes from how you manage your sail controls. 

For decades, Laser sailors struggled with a basic 3:1 or 6:1 "block and tackle" system. These older setups were notorious for being nearly impossible to pull once the wind exceeded 15 knots, and even harder to release under load. When the "XD" (Extra Dimension) rigging was introduced, it changed the game by offering a massive 15:1 mechanical advantage. This leap in technology allowed sailors of all sizes to de-power the boat effectively, bending the mast and flattening the sail with a single hand. That goes to show the Laser Kicker has an undeniable power on your boat, which is a great upgrade if you're a competitive sailor.

The Holt Laser kicker is a popular option within club sailors, in this article we're going to show you how to rig the Holt Laser kicker system.

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions for the Holt Laser Kicker System, it is essential to have your workspace organised. Rigging a cascading Laser Kicker system involves several meters of rope and multiple moving parts. If a line is twisted during the initial "primary" stage, the friction will be doubled by the time you reach the "secondary" stage.

Before we pull any lines, let's take a look at what's in your Holt Laser Kicker Kit:

• Vang Base Unit: The swivel base with the cam cleat.
• High Tension Top Block: This includes the curved Laser Kicker Key that slots into your boom.
• Double Block with Becket: This is your "floating" block that creates the purchase.
• Primary Line (Red Dyneema): Usually around 140cm or 3.5mm high-strength line.
• Secondary Line (Red/White Poly): The longer 5mm control line that leads to your hand.

The primary line is the "muscle" of the Laser Kicker system. Unlike the Allen version where you might tie through a center hole, the Holt Laser Kicker system starts at the becket of the floating double block.

• Find the short, thin Dyneema line. Tie a secure Bowline or a Primary Loop onto the becket of the double block. Ideally you would splice this into place for extra strength and longevity

Once attached to the double block, the primary line needs to head down to the base unit.

• Thread the free end of the Dyneema through the single sheave at the top of the Vang Base Unit.
• Ensure the line isn't twisted. In the Holt system, the smoothness of this specific run determines how easily the vang "releases" when you blow the cleat.

Now, the primary Dyneema line goes back up to the top block (the one with the metal key).

• The Sheave: Feed the Dyneema through the sheave of the High Tension Top Block.

• The Anchor: The end of this line is then secured back to the Holt Vang Base Unit. Ensure you secure it to the cross-bolt or the dedicated eyelet on the side of the base.

• Pro Tip: Keep this knot small. If the knot is too bulky, it can prevent the blocks from coming together fully (block-to-block), which limits your maximum tension.

This is where the 15-1 mechanical advantage is created. For the Holt system, the secondary line starts at the top of the system.

• The Starting Knot: Secure your 5mm control line to the becket (the small metal loop) of the High Tension Top Block using a compact bowline.

• The First Pass: Lead the line down to the first sheave of the floating double block. Ensure there are no twists as it enters the block.

• The Completion: Loop the line back up to the second sheave on the top block and then finally back down to the second sheave on the floating double block. You should see a clear "V" shape. If the lines cross over like an "X", you will have massive friction issues.

The final run of the secondary line leads to your hand and must be secured to ensure you don't lose the tail during a manoeuvre.

• The Fairlead: Pass the line down from the floating double block, through the metal fairlead, and directly between the cams of the Holt base unit.

• The Cleat: Ensure the line sits cleanly between the cams. Because the Holt base unit swivels, the cleat will follow you as you hike, allowing you to pull or "flick" the line to release from almost any angle.

• The Handle: Tie a large Figure-Eight knot or a loop at the end of the line (as seen in your final assembly photos). This prevents the line from slipping through the fairlead during a capsize and provides a solid grip when you need to apply maximum tension in heavy air.

Before you hit the water, it is essential to perform a dry run of the system to ensure the "throw" is correct.

• The Test: Pull the control line firmly. The floating double block should rise smoothly toward the boom without the primary or secondary lines crossing over each other.

• The Release: When you flick the line up to release the cleat, the blocks should drop instantly. If there is any resistance, check that your knots on the beckets aren't rubbing against the rotating sheaves.

• Line friction: If the system feels heavy, check that the primary Dyneema isn't rubbing against the cheeks of the blocks. 
• The "Allen" Disclaimer: As noted in the Allen YouTube video, the Allen block lacks a becket, requiring a "tie-through-centre" method. Since your Holt Double Block has a becket, always use the becket. It keeps the line centred and prevents the blocks from capsizing (turning sideways) under load.
• Laser Kicker Key Alignment: Because the Holt key has a specific ergonomic curve, it must be inserted into the boom slot so that the curve follows the natural arc of the mast. If you install it backwards, you'll find that the key can 'bind' or even pop out when you release the vang quickly at a leeward mark. Before finalising your knots, double-check that the key can pivot freely without hitting the edges of the boom gooseneck.

Rigging the Holt Laser Kicker system is a straightforward process once you account for the becket-style attachment. By following these steps and using the photos as a visual map, you'll have a professional-grade Laser Kicker system that performs identically to the top-tier racing setups.

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