Lifeline question (and hello)

[NATBF]

I am now preparing to lace up my lifelines, and two options present themselves. I am curious re: any comments:

1. Netting.
Pro: seems like a lot of coverage. [N.b.: I would probably only go back to maybe the shrouds, not all the way around the stern, and not around the front of the pulpit either.]
Con: Seems like a ton of work, and hard to replace (due to work) and maybe a lot of windage at the bow. Plus not that cheap compared to just lacing.
https://www.sailrite.com/How-to-Install-Lifeline-Netting-Video
https://www.sailrite.com/Lifeline-Netting-24-Wide

2. Lacing. Like picture @Sleddog posted above.
Pro: Seems easier to do.
Con: maybe less secure? Especially as I have no full-length slotted toerail.

Since I have no full-length toerail, the bottom connection would have to be via some line I secure between the bottoms of the stanchion bases. I am thinking 1/8" leechline (or maybe something stronger) with butterfly knots tied every several inches that I can then use to lace the bottoms of the diagonals through, ending up with something vaguely like sleddogs' picture.

Curious if there are any strong opinions about what is best / things I should be considering before investing the effort.

Many thanks!

 

[sleddog]

Since I have no full-length toerail, the bottom connection would have to be via some line I secure between the bottoms of the stanchion bases. I am thinking 1/8" leechline (or maybe something stronger) with butterfly knots tied every several inches that I can then use to lace the bottoms of the diagonals through, ending up with something vaguely like sleddogs' picture.

See SER 2.4.8 regarding required toerails on foredeck: Toe rails shall be fitted around the foredeck from the base of the mast with a minimum height of 3/4" (18mm). An additional installed lifeline that is 1-2" (25-51mm) above the deck will satisfy this requirement for boats without toe rails. SSS Change

A toerail around the foredeck is something to brace your foot against. A leechline toerail won't cut the mustard.

 

[BobJ]

The Ericson 34-2 has fairly substantial molded-in toerails, so you should be fine there. I agree you don't want to drill holes through them. I didn't want to drill holes through Surprise!'s toerails either. Her stanchions are close enough together that I am getting by with a simple lacing tied to the bases of the stanchions and clove-hitched at each spot where they cross a lifeline. These survived the PacCup and return. The photo isn't meant to show off - it's the only image I could find that shows the lacing.

 

[Critter]

When I got my boat, it had the type of toerail that incorporates T-track, so there was nothing to lace through. The PO screwed 3 or 4 small strap eyes on each side just inboard from the rail, from the bow pulpit nearly back to the mast. Running a line through them and getting it good and tight provides a deck-level anchor point for lacing.

After I got T-boned years ago, we replaced the T-track with conventional slotted toerail. It just occurred to me that I could be using the rail for lacing now! But I'm still using the line through the strap eyes.

I lace up to the upper lifeline as far back as the first stanchion, then just up to the intermediate lifeline to the second stanchion, just aft of the mast.

 

[Daydreamer]

My toe rails rum from the mast to the bow but are a little undersize, about 5/8 inch tall as opposed the 3/4 inch spec.

I plan to run a lower line between the pulpit and first stanchion.

I could use that to run a weave or netting. I like a weave. Just enough to help contain a loose jib.