Doug Maas wrote ..
> how does a new guy begin to choose the right machine?

As with any sailing craft, the best choice is what other sailors use in your
area or where you intend to sail. You know that's a design that is suitable for
the venue, there's a ready supply of used boats, a market for your boat when you
want something different, and lots of company that makes sailing even more fun.

I'd say the two best bets for someone starting out are a Manta (single or twin)
and Fed 5, a one-design that conforms to the International 5-square Metre class.
If you have little or no sailing experience, I'd advise the Manta. If you are
an experienced water sailor wanting to enjoy landsailing, I'd advise the Fed 5.
A beginning sailor may find the Fed 5 a little too exciting, but the experienced
sailor will enjoy the performance and be able to master the techniques (such as
steering through a gust instead of sheeting out). Manta is just about
foolproof. There's a ready used boat market for both, and they can both be used
on beach or playa. The Fed 5/Int'l 5-square is especially suited for the beach,
because that's what they have in Europe.

By all means try to make it to the PACRIM regatta.

Cheers,

Tom Speer