In the DS class rules there are measurement positions for all of the mast fittings and the 3 mast bands...Band 1 at the level of the deck, Band 2 at the gooseneck position and Band 3 at the full hoist position. The rules give maximum lengths between Band 1 and Band 2 (deck to gooseneck) and between Band 2 and Band 3 (gooseneck to top of mast). The higher section needs to be set at the maximum because the mainsail needs the room, but the lower segment could be shorter.
The maximum length of the lower segment (from the deck to gooseneck) is 2 feet. Is that what everyone has, or is there a variety of lengths and theories?