The modern market of small craft is full of offers, but the model of the boat is not. bottlenose 320 It's been a very strong presence in the affordable inflatable boats for several years. PVC The series is designed for anglers and tourists looking for a balance between compact folding and enough load capacity for two people, and is not only driven by the manufacturer's pricing policy, but also by proven design solutions that ensure safety on the water.
Owners often choose this length of the body, as it allows you to comfortably place two spinning, sonar and the necessary stock of gear, while remaining easy to transport. The key feature of the model is the use of a reinforced five-layer material that is resistant to punctures and ultraviolet radiation.In this review, we will take a detailed look at all the nuances of operation so that you can make an informed decision about buying.
Many people ask themselves: should we overpay for a brand or can we trust trusted domestic manufacturers? bottlenose It is the leading boat in the world for boats up to 3.5 meters long, and it is not just marketing, but the result of years of use in a variety of climates, from the hot waters of the south to the cold lakes of the north.
Structural features and materials of the body
The basis of reliability of any inflatable boat is the quality of the material. bottlenose 320 reinforced PVC The material is highly abrasive, particularly when descenting to rocky shores or when used in overgrown waters, depending on the modification and year of production. The hot-glue technology ensures tightness of the joints even at extreme temperature extremes.
The design of the cylinders provides for independent compartments, which is a critical safety element, and in the event of damage to one of the cylinders, the second one will allow you to stay afloat and reach the shore. kylson (bottom reinforcement) in this model is made of a durable tape that protects the bottom from damage when dragging on sand or small pebbles.
- 🛡️ Use of five-layer high-density reinforced material.
- ⚓ The presence of a timber around the perimeter to protect against impacts.
- 🔒 Reliable valves of the "Frog" type for rapid pumping and air venting.
- 🧵 Double slugging of the joints in the most loaded nodes.
And the thing that we need to focus on is the transom fastening system, and unlike cheap ones, where the transom is just inserted into your pockets, it's a rigid locking system that eliminates the high-speed backlash of the motor, which has a direct impact on the efficiency and handling of the vessel.
⚠️ Warning: Despite the high strength of the material, avoid contact of sharp objects with the surface of the cylinders when inflated. The pressure of the air inside creates tension, which can enhance the effect of puncture.
Welding technology
What's the difference?: The seams in bottlenose boats are treated by hot vulcanization, which makes them monolithic. Unlike cold gluing, here the material melts and connects at a molecular level, eliminating stratification over time.
Comfort and ergonomics: bottom and cockpit
The interior of the boat bottlenose 320 The width of the cockpit allows two adults to comfortably sit together without interfering with each other while catching fish. An important element is the type of bottom, which can vary depending on the configuration: from simple inflatable to hard solder.NDMA or plywood.
Low pressure inflatable floor (NDMA) provides maximum comfort, as it allows you to sit directly on the floor without the use of additional seats, the rigidity of this bottom is comparable to plywood, but it weighs much less. However, for speed modes and glides with a powerful motor, the option with a sleigh of waterproof plywood or aluminum is preferable.
The ergonomics of the workplace are also designed, the oars are arranged so that the rower does not touch the cylinders, the fasteners are designed for the oars. spinning And the can holders are often integrated into the design or easily installed, and this frees up your hands and allows you to focus on the fishing process.
It's worth noting that the cans are comfortable, they're soft-coated moisture-resistant plywood, or they're rigid, and they're fixed in a certain position, and they don't slide down the bottom in sudden maneuvers or excitement.
Technical specifications and load capacity
When choosing a boat, the key parameters are the dimensions and permissible load. bottlenose 320 The number "320" in the title indicates the total length of the hull in centimeters, which is the optimal size for storing in the trunk of a passenger car and transporting on public transport (in a case).
The model's carrying capacity allows for two medium-sized people, a motor, a battery, fishing gear and spare parts, but for confident glides with two passengers, the engine power reserve may not be enough, so most often this boat is used as a single-seater with an engine or a two-seater rowing boat.
| Parameter | Meaning | Units of measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Total length | 320 | centimeter |
| general width | 140-145 | centimeter |
| Diameter of the cylinder | 36-40 | centimeter |
| Load capacity | 400-450 | kilogram |
| Boat weight (with sludge) | 32-38 | kilogram |
The power of the recommended engine varies from 2 to 5 horsepowerInstallation of a more powerful engine is possible, but requires caution and compliance with the rules of registration in GIMS, since a boat with an engine of more than 5 hp or a total weight of more than 200 kg is subject to mandatory registration.
The optimal power of the engine for the bottlenose bottlenose 320 with one angler and equipment is 3.5-4 hp, which allows you to reach speeds of up to 20-25 km / h.
Managing and Behavior on Water
Driving performance bottlenose bottlenose 320 The conical noses effectively dissect the wave, reducing the risk of water flooding the cockpit, and this is especially true in large bodies of water, where the wind can quickly raise ripples or waves.
When using an outboard motor, the boat enters planing mode quickly enough if the load does not exceed 100-120 kg. Control at high speeds is stable, yaw is minimal due to the correct distribution of air volumes in the cylinders. However, it is worth considering that the inflatable sides have a certain sailing capacity.
On oars, the boat behaves predictably, although it requires some effort due to the width of the hull. For long transitions on oars, it is recommended to use lightweight aluminum oars with plastic or composite blades, which are often included or purchased separately.
- 🌊 Good weather thanks to a high nose.
- 🎣 Stability at anchor and when catching in the throw.
- 🌀 Minimum yaw when driving for an outboard motor.
- 💨 Sailing requires caution in strong side winds.
⚠️ Attention: When you're going against the wind at high speed, watch the angle of attack of the wave. A sharp blow to the nose against a steep wave can cause the passenger to eject forward. Always use the safety fuse for the motor.
Assembly, storage and transportation
One of the great advantages of the model is that it's easy to build, and even a beginner can prepare a boat. bottlenose 320 The process starts with the layout and pumping of the cylinders, then the slate is installed (if it is rigid) and the transom is fixed, and it is important to follow the pumping sequence recommended by the manufacturer to avoid distortions.
☑️ Season preparation checklist
For pumping, it is best to use a foot or electric pump with a pressure gauge, the pressure in the cylinders should be about 0.2 atmosphere (or according to the instructions for a particular model), pumping in hot weather is dangerous to expand air and break seams, so you should lightly burn air in the sun.
After operation, the boat must be thoroughly washed with fresh water, especially if it was used in salt water or dirty water. PVC in the closed state, it is quickly covered with mold, which destroys the structure of the tissue.
For quick drying inside cylinders, use a car compressor in blow mode or a special drying bag that creates a greenhouse effect in the sun.
Store the product should be spread out or freely rolled up in a cool, dry place protected from rodents. Sharp temperature changes and direct sunlight during long-term storage reduce the life of the material.
Comparison with competitors and final verdict
In the face of competitors such as Flagship, hunter or Mev.boat bottlenose 320 It doesn't claim to be the fastest or the most spacious, but it offers reliability that has been tested by thousands of users. In its price segment, it often benefits from better hardware and attention to detail.
Compared to more expensive models, the difference will be the weight of the fabric used and the availability of additional options, such as built-in anchor liners or pockets. However, for the average amateur fisherman, these differences may not be so critical, the main thing is the safety and pleasure of fishing, which this boat provides to the fullest.
In conclusion, it may be said that bottlenose 320 It's a versatile weekend fishing soldier, and it forgives many mistakes for beginners and makes experienced water-engineers happy with its predictability, and when you buy this boat, you get a reliable tool for relaxing on the water without overpaying for unnecessary functions.
⚠️ Note: When buying, pay attention to the package. Some sellers may specify the basic version without oars, pump or bag, which will require additional costs.
The secret of valve durability
To keep the valves lasting longer, periodically lubricate their internal threads with silicone lubrication and clear the sand. Sand grains caught between the sealing rings can cause etching air.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I register the boat Afalina 320 in GIMS?
Registration depends on the load capacity and power of the installed engine. If the load capacity is less than 225 kg and the engine is up to 8 hp (inclusive), registration is not required. However, the legislation may change, so always check the current requirements in your area.
What repairs can be done yourself?
Small punctures and cuts up to 3-5 cm long can be sealed by yourself with a remix, included in the package. To do this, you need to degrease the surface, apply glue and press the patch. Serious damage to the seams requires treatment in a specialized service.
Is this boat compatible with electric motors?
Yes, the transom design allows electric motors to be installed, which is a great option for quiet fishing, where ICE noise is prohibited.
How long does the boat dry after fishing?
In sunny weather, with good ventilation, the boat will dry for about 2-3 hours. In cloudy or humid weather, the process can take up to a day. Do not pack a wet product, this will lead to the appearance of a fungus.