Choosing a swimming vehicle for fishing or recreation on the water always involves finding a balance between cost, reliability and functionality. Legend 350It's a very compact, assembled model that's a very spacious cockpit for a crew of two or three, and many users choose this size because it allows you to comfortably fit with the right gear while still being mobile.
However, despite the popularity, potential buyers often face conflicting information about the real quality of materials and driving performance. PVC Boats This series is made from reinforced polyvinyl chloride, but the density of the fabric and the quality of the seams can vary depending on the batch. It is important to understand that this is not a premium segment, but a utilitarian tool that requires a competent approach to operation. In this article, we will discuss all the nuances in detail so that you can make an informed decision.
It is worth noting that the market for inflatable boats is full of offers, and Legend 350 It's often competing with more expensive ones. What makes it so popular? First of all, it's affordable, with all the necessary design elements: inflatable floor, transom, cylinders. For those who are just trying to be captains or looking for a boat for rare trips to the nearest lake, this seems to be the best option. But the devil, as usual, is in the details of the assembly and materials.
Structural features and materials of the body
The basis of reliability of any inflatable vessel is the material from which the cylinders are made. PVCThe density of the material usually varies between 750 and 850 g/sq.m., which is considered the average for a given class, which is enough for calm water, moderate rivers and small lakes, but rocky banks or sharp objects at the bottom can be dangerous.
The design of the bottom deserves special attention. Legend 350 It's often equipped with a low-pressure inflatable floor (LDPB), which is a big comfort advantage, and it's a technology that allows you to forget about the hard plywood or aluminum floorboards that you need to harvest and dry after every fishing trip. seaworthiness And it's a little bit of a turbulent shock, but it adds weight to the boat when it's pumped, and it's not a problem to store it, because it's compact when it's deflated.
⚠️ Warning: When operating a boat with an inflatable floor, it is strictly not recommended to wear rigid shoes with heels or spikes inside the cockpit. A sharp heel can damage the inner surface of the bottom, which will lead to depressurization on the water.
The joints are welded or glued, depending on the year of manufacture and the specific modification. The two-part adhesive used in assembly ensures tightness, but requires careful consideration of temperature storage. If you leave the boat in an unheated garage in the winter, the material can become brittle. Reinforcing layer inside PVC prevents the cylinders from stretching under pressure, keeping the boat's geometry even at full load.
- 🛶 Material: Reinforced PVC density up to 850 g/sq.m.
- 🔩 Tranza: Built-in, reinforced with plywood or plastic, is designed for a motor up to 5-8 hp.
- 🎈 Bottom: Low pressure inflatable (LDP) or propillar (depending on the configuration).
Why is the reinforcement layer important?
The reinforcement layer is a polyester-stranded grid that prevents the material from stretching under pressure, and without it, the boat would become a shapeless bubble, losing its ride and stability.
Dimensions, capacity and load capacity
The number "350" in the model name indicates the total length of the vessel, which is 350 centimeters. double-seat It's a boat that can accommodate three people if necessary, but it's less comfortable, and it's usually about 45 to 48 cm wide, which is very stable, and you can feel safe on that boat even when you're moving around a lot of fishermen inside the cockpit.
Load capacity is a critical parameter that is often overestimated. Legends 350 This includes the weight of passengers, motor, fuel, equipment and the boat itself, and if you plan to carry a heavy sonar, anchor, tent and fuel for a few days, the payload on people will be significantly reduced, exceeding the permissible limits leads to a decrease in the board above the water and loss of controllability.
The interior space is organized quite ergonomically. transom plate rigidly fixed and allows you to install the engine with a capacity of up to 8 hp, although the optimal range is considered to be 5-6 hp for a given length. The presence of humps along the perimeter of the balloon not only protects the board from impacts, but also serves as a convenient handle for pulling the boat ashore or for mounting additional equipment.
When fully loaded, the boat becomes less responsive to steering, especially at low speeds. It is important to distribute the load evenly, without shifting the center of gravity to one of the sides or to the transom. If you overload the stern, the bow of the boat will rise, and it will begin to "scour" along the course, and fuel consumption will increase. hanging The key to economical and safe operation.
Driving qualities and compatibility with motors
Dynamics of movement Legends 350 With a 2-3 hp engine, the boat barely goes into planing with even one person on board. This is a displacement mode where the speed does not exceed 5-7 km / h. To feel the real drive and get on the glider, you need a motor of 5 hp and above. In this case, the boat can easily accelerate to 25-30 km / h.
The inflatable floor of the NDND plays a crucial role here, creating a hard surface that works effectively on the wave, softening the impacts, but the sailing capacity of inflatable tubes is higher than that of hard-hulled cylinders. Legend 350 It can take off, which requires constant steering, and this is especially noticeable when you're driving against the wind or when you're using low-power engines.
| Engine power (hp) | Mode of traffic | Max. speed (km/h) | Fuel consumption (l/hour) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 - 3.5 | Water-displacement | 6 - 8 | 0.8 - 1.2 |
| 5.0 | planing (1 person) | 22 - 25 | 1.5 - 1.8 |
| 8.0 | planing (2 persons) | 28 - 32 | 2.2 - 2.8 |
| 9.9 | maximum | 33 - 35 | 3.0 - 3.5 |
It is worth considering that the installation of too powerful motor on the transom Legends 350 The design of the boat is not designed for extreme loads, and the optimal choice will be a two-stroke engine 5-6 hp, which will provide a confident getting on plane with one angler and medium load.
☑️ Checking before getting on the water
Assembly, storage and transportation
One of the main advantages of inflatable boats is their transportability. Legend 350 It's packed in one or two cases that can easily fit in the trunk of a passenger car, and it weighs about 35 to 40 kg, which allows one adult male to carry it, although it's more convenient to do it together, and it takes 10 to 15 minutes to assemble, with experience and an electric or foot pump.
Using an electric pump significantly speeds up the process, but requires a power source of 12V. It is important not to pump cylinders in the sun, since the air expands when heated, and the pressure inside can exceed the permissible norms, which will lead to rupture of the seams. Pressure control It is a mandatory procedure, especially in hot weather, to pump the boat on the shore, and then, after releasing some air, leave it in the sun for 10-15 minutes to adapt.
⚠️ Warning: Never leave a fully pumped boat in direct sunlight unattended, and the pressure inside the cylinders increases proportionally to the temperature, which can lead to irreversible deformation or valve explosion.
The best temperature is from +5 to +25 degrees Celsius, wet spaces contribute to the appearance of mold on the fabric, and frost makes PVC brittle. Before laying on for long-term storage, the boat must be thoroughly washed, dried and treated with talc or special care products. PVC materialsThis will extend the life of the product for several seasons.
- 🧼 Cleanup: Use a soft sponge and soap solution, avoid aggressive chemicals.
- 💨 Drying: Complete drying of all elements before packaging is mandatory.
- 🌡️ Temperature: Avoid storage near heating appliances and in the cold.
For quick drying of the boat after fishing, use a car compressor in blow mode (if there is such a feature) or simply leave it in the straightened form in the garage with open valves overnight.
Typical problems and ways to fix them
Like any technique, Legend 350 The most common problem with budget models is the unsticking of the transomb or stiffness elements when actively operating on the wave; the adhesive used by the manufacturer may not withstand the constant vibrations of a powerful motor; the solution is to additionally seal the seams with special two-part compounds at home.
Etching valves is another common nuisance. Sand or dirt that gets into the valve mechanism violates the leakiness. Regular cleaning and lubrication with silicone grease help avoid leaks. If the boat starts poisoning the air, don't panic: use a soap solution to find a bubble and seal the damage with a remix that comes with the kit. Repair of PVC A skill that every inflatable boat owner must master.
The bottom wear is a natural process, but on In the legend 350, it can accelerate with frequent outcrops in shallow water with a rocky bottom. For protection, it is recommended to use special protective belts (“beads”) or transport wheels that minimize the contact of the bottom with the ground when launching. Ignoring the protection will lead to scuffs and eventual punctures.
⚠️ Warning: When you stick a puncture, don't use superglue (cyanacrylate). It makes the material tough and brittle, causing the crack to grow around the patch. Use only special PVC glue.
Owners also note that the mounting of the oars can weaken over time, periodic bolt lifting and the use of a thread lock will help maintain the functionality of the rowing version. The oars in the kit are often light and flexible, so many anglers prefer to buy more durable aluminum or carbon fiber counterparts.
Regular maintenance and timely repair of minor defects extend the life of the boat Legend 350 for 5-7 years of active use.
Comparison with competitors and final verdict
In the face of competitors, Flagship or Solar.model Legend 350 It looks like an entry-level workhorse, inferior to more expensive brands for fittings and material density, but it's a better price. For seasonal use, 10-15 times a year, it's a great solution. If you plan to go on a boat every weekend and spend the night in it, you might want to consider options with a thicker PVC and a reinforced design.
The big thing about this model is versatility, and it's suitable for spinning, trolling at low speeds, and for family walks, and the simplicity of the design makes it easy to modify the boat, with spinning holders, sonars, awnings and hinged transoms. tuning Legends 350 is a popular topic on fishing forums where owners share unique comfort solutions.
In conclusion, Boat Legend 350 It's a great entry ticket to the world of water tourism, it forgives many mistakes for beginners, it's cheap to maintain, and it's quite reliable when handled carefully, and when you buy this model, you get a functional vessel that, if properly maintained, will serve for many seasons, giving you unforgettable moments on the water.
- ✅ Pros: Low price, compactness, availability of NDND, ease of repair.
- ❌ Cons: Average quality of glue, sailing, engine power limitations.
- ⚖️ Verdict: The best choice for beginners and amateur fishermen on a limited budget.
The 350 is the best balance of price and quality for those who want to try a boat with an engine without investing a lot of money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the optimal pressure to pump into the cylinders of the Legend 350?
The optimum operating pressure for cylinders is 0.2 atmosphere (about 200 mbar or 3 psi). For the inflatable floor of the NDND, the pressure should be in the range of 0.6-0.8 atmosphere. Excess pressure in heat is dangerous by rupture of seams.
Can I put on the Legend 350 engine 9.9 hp?
Technically, you can install it because the transom is able to withstand it, but it is considered an overload for a 3.5-meter long hull. The boat will scour and the risk of damage to the transom plate increases. The engine is recommended to 6-8 hp.
How to seal the boat if there is no remaplet at hand?
In emergency cases, you can use a piece of PVC from an old boat or even a dense fabric soaked in PVC glue. However, the use of superglue or tape is a temporary measure that can permanently spoil the material.
How many people comfortably accommodate in a 350 cm boat?
Comfortable in Legend 350 We'll have two medium-sized adults with equipment, and a third person will fit, but there's very little room for movement and maneuver, which will reduce safety and stability.