Choosing a watercraft for outdoor activities is always a balance between the comfort you want and the budget you want. Buy Hunter 390A NDNDMSo you need a versatile option that can withstand serious fishing or family outings, and this model has long been proven on the market as a reliable workhorse with a large margin of safety.
However, despite the brand’s popularity, newcomers often have confusion about the vessel’s configuration and real-world capabilities, and many people don’t realize that the 390cm length is a parameter for an inflated cylinder, and the usable cockpit area is significantly smaller. Hunter 390A It differs from competitors by the presence of a rigid transom that can withstand motors up to 15 hp, which makes it an excellent choice for planing.
In this article, we will discuss in detail whether sheepskin is worth making, and what nuances should be paid attention to before buying, so as not to overpay for unnecessary options or, conversely, not to get too simple design.
Structural features and materials of the bodyThe basis of durability of any inflatable boat is in the materials. PVC This is a critical parameter for the 390A, because the surface area is large and the pressure on the walls increases when moving along the wave. The denser material (920 g / m2) resists puncture better, but is much heavier.
The design of the bottom is made by technology NDMA This means that the floor is pumped separately and creates a rigid plane that resembles plywood. Unlike the plywood floors, there are no joints that can let water through, and no assembly and disassembly of lag is required. Just spread the boat, pump the cylinders and the bottom, and it is ready to descend.
⚠️ Warning: Do not pump the bottom of the NDND above 0.2 atm, especially in hot weather. Excessive pressure can cause internal bulkheads to rupture, which is practically impossible to repair in the field.
It's important to note the quality of the seams. The Hunters use a flap-surfing technique that makes the seam more visible and slightly less tensile than the weld used by some competitors, but with careful operation, the life of these joints is calculated in years.
Dimensions, capacity and ergonomics of the cockpitWhen a buyer sees the number 390 in the name, they expect the space of a three-meter boat. cockpit-length The rest of the space is occupied by inflatable tubes and bow / aft. the width of the cockpit usually varies between 110-120 cm.
Ergonomics of the model Hunter 390A It's designed to accommodate two or three people, and the seats are usually complete and are length-adjusted, and this allows you to shift the center of gravity based on the number of passengers and cargo, which is critical for planing access.
For fishermen, the availability of cone-shaped inflatable tubes In the nose, which improves germination on the wave and protects against splashes. Model A (Angar / Universal) often provides an increased cockpit due to displacement of cylinders, but this can slightly reduce stability in the parking lot.
Technical specifications and compatible motorsChoosing an engine is not just a matter of power, but also weight. Hunter 390A is able to bring one person to plane with a motor from 9.9 hp. However, for a comfortable fishing trip with two or with a load, you will need a unit with a power output. 15 hp and higher.
The trayboard is reinforced and can withstand heavy engine attachment, but the total weight of the boat assembled with the engine and fuel may come to the loading limit.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Full length | 390 cm | Outwardly. |
| Full width | 165 cm | Maximum |
| Load capacity | 650 kg | Including boat weight |
| Engine power | 15 hp. | Recommended 9.9-15 |
| Boat weight | ~68 kg | No motor or hinge. |
Consider that rated carrying capacity is the limit at which the boat is still afloat. To drive safely and quickly, you need to leave a margin of 20-30%. Using a motor with a capacity of more than 15 hp is possible, but it requires caution and shifting the center of gravity to the nose.
Components: What is included in the basic setBuying a boat doesn't just mean you get cylinders. The standard kit includes everything you need for your first outing, but often requires refitting for comfortable use. The basic package usually includes inflatable seats, a bag-pack, a remix, a pump (often a foot) and a drain valve.
☑️ Checking the completeness when buying
Special attention deserves fittingsLavira-holders for oars, handles for carrying and liner cable must be sewn securely. The 390A often uses a perimeter lever, which serves as insurance for passengers and an element of attachment of additional equipment.
If you plan to use a sonar or a navigator, think ahead about where they are attached. The hard transom allows you to install a bracket, but it may not be in the basic configuration, and it is also useful to purchase an anchor rhym right away, since the regular options are sometimes too light for a boat of this size.
Comparison with competitors and analoguesThere are many similarly sized models on the market, like the Flagship 380, Cayman 380 or Med 370. What is Hunter's advantage? price/qualityFor less money, you get a lot of volume and a hard transom.
The Hunters' seams may require periodic inspection and sticking, unlike the welds of some premium brands, and can weigh as much as 70kg in a package, making it difficult to transport a boat alone without a trolley.
Hidden features of the 390A
The Model A often uses a modified cylinder geometry, which allows for an increase in the internal volume of the cockpit by 10-15% compared to the classic version of the 390, but makes the sides taller, which increases sailing.
For those who appreciate the speed of assembly, Hunter’s NDND will be a pleasant surprise: the inflatable floor is spread faster than the solder floor is collected, and has no “ribs” that can rub your feet when you are in a boat for a long time.
Operational rules and maintenanceFor a boat to last, you have to follow simple rules, and after every time you go out, especially in salty or polluted water, you have to follow simple rules. PVC surface You have to wash it with fresh water, and the salt crystallizes, and it can damage the structure of the material over time.
Store the product should be spread out or half-blown to avoid sticking together the inner layers. The optimal storage temperature is from +5 to +25 degrees Celsius. Frost makes the material fragile, and heat can provoke air expansion in the valves.
Check the pressure in the cylinders regularly. It should not fall below 0.2 atm in working conditions. If the boat is "eating" faster than 0.05 atm per day, you should look for a puncture or a valve that is not tightly closed.
How to buy Hunter 390ABuying directly from the manufacturer often seems like the best deal, but the logistics of a large boat can eat up all the savings. Regional dealers often offer ready-made kits with engines, saving on delivery and getting pre-sales preparation.
When buying, be sure to demand a warranty card and a check. Pay attention to the date of production: it is not recommended to store the inflatable product in a warehouse for more than 2-3 years, since plasticizers in PVC can begin to degrade even without operation.
The best time to buy is the end of the season (September-October), when prices fall by 15-20%, and the choice of trim levels is still great.
Don't be afraid to ask the seller about the density of the fabric and the type of seams. A competent consultant will always be able to provide samples of the material or show the interior design. Hunter 390A This is an investment in your vacation, and saving on quality is unacceptable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a 20 hp engine be installed on Hunter 390A?
Technically, the transom will survive, but it violates security rules and data-sheet figures. The boat can become unstable, and when faced with a wave, there is a high risk of flooding. The recommended maximum is 15 hp.
How many people can fit comfortably in the 390A?
Two adults and a load are optimal. Three people will fit, but the boat will land very low, which will reduce speed and seaworthiness. For three, it is better to consider models from 420 cm.
How to properly store the boat in winter?
The best option is to hang in a warm room, and if this is not possible, keep it in a bag at a temperature of at least -10 ° C, avoiding sudden changes.
What is the difference between the 390A and the 390?
The A-indicator usually indicates a modification with an enlarged cockpit or a modified nose balloon shape for better swelling, with exact differences depending on the year of release.