But, all those cockpit methods will interfere with using a cockpit cover. Any time I'd need a lock (currently thinking of getting or making stem loop cable), I'd also need a cockpit cover, for travel, rain shedding, etc.

: Exactly. On production boats I loop the cable around the seat, on
: most of my SOF's I loop it around the frame behind the seat (I
: like to leave a vertical "post" to help support the
: rear deck) on the stripper I loop it around the seat side brace
: (mine are glassed to the bottom to help support the side decks).

: Bill H.