If you use the topsail as THE means for hoisting, what you will have is essentially a low-aspect-ratio rig with the gaff acting as a huge full-length batten. I've been watching battens get longer and stiffer, giving Marconi sails more and more roach until they are not far removed from gaffers (or maybe junks, what with all the battens) only without the extra halyard. What you'll be doing will be years ahead of our time. On blustery days, you could still hoist with the topsail, but just have extra reefs below.
I too am building a gaff rig with modern materials, so I've spent many hours thinking along your very lines.
Best,
Ben
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