Choosing a first or new swimmer is always fraught with many questions, especially when it comes to the classic design of aluminum-magnesium alloy. Boat Bester 390 For many years it has been one of the most popular models in the domestic market of small craft, and there are several objective reasons for this: it is a reliable workhorse that combines affordable price, time-tested design and maintainability.
Many anglers and hunters value metal casings for their ability to withstand contact with snags, rocks and ice, which is often fatal for inflatable counterparts. Best 390 There are specific features that you need to consider before you buy, and in this article we will discuss in detail the geometry of the body, the effect of the transom on the choice of motor and the nuances of driving performance in real conditions in various water bodies.
It's worth noting that the popularity of this model generates many modifications and years of release, which can confuse the buyer. We will focus on the basic specifications that are relevant to most of the examples presented on sale. Understanding the design will help you not only choose the right boat, but also to properly maintain it in the future.
Shell design and materials used
The basis of durability Best 390 This material has excellent corrosion resistance and, importantly, does not require painting in the traditional sense. The surface of the body has a characteristic matte texture that hides small scratches and scuffs that inevitably appear during active operation.
The bottom geometry is designed for calm water and small waves. The flat aft allows decent speed with low-power engines, but has its limitations. The nose has moderate bilgeiness, which helps to soften the shocks against the wave, although the comfort of swimming at high speed is lower here than that of more modern models with deep kilewat.
It is important to note the quality of welds, which are performed by argon-arc welding. It is the quality of these joints that determines the tightness and overall strength of the structure. When inspecting a new boat or buying from hand, special attention should be paid to the absence of cracks in stress zones, especially in the places where the cans and transoms are attached.
⚠️ Warning: When transporting on a trailer, be sure to check the tension of the belts and the condition of the support rollers. Excessive deflection of the bottom under its own weight if improperly stacked on the trailer can lead to deformation of the structure.
The case also includes welding elements such as mooring ducks and beams, which must be secure because they take the bulk of the load when berthing. In newer versions, the manufacturer improves ergonomics by adding additional stiffness ribs, which has a positive effect on the overall rigidity of the structure.
Technical specifications and dimensions
To understand the real capabilities of the vessel, you need to turn to dry figures. Overall length The model is 3,900 mm, making it convenient to place in the trunk of most station wagons or on the roof of the car using a special fastener. The width on the side is 1450 mm, which provides sufficient stability afloat, but limits the interior space.
A 380 mm height is standard for this class of boats, which is quite enough to protect against splashes in calm course, but in a strong wave or when rolling water can easily spill over the side. The model's load capacity is usually stated in the region of 350-400 kg, which includes the weight of passengers, engine, fuel and equipment.
Below is a table with the main technical parameters that will help you navigate when choosing:
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Longest length | 3.90 m | Overall size |
| largest width | 1.45 m | By the side. |
| Height of board | 0.38m | Midle |
| Hull mass | ~45 kg | No equipment. |
| Passenger capacity | 3 people. | Including the cargo |
Weight empty boat about 45 kilograms allows you to load and unload the force of two people without the use of sophisticated equipment, but it is worth considering that when you install a heavy motor and a full fuel tank, the center of gravity will shift, and maneuverability on land will change.
Capacity and interior arrangements
Interior space Best 390 It's organized in a very simple and functional way, and the standard set includes two removable plywood cans, which are mounted in grooves or brackets, allowing for rigid fixation while driving.
The bow of the boat is often used to house an anchor box or store long objects such as fishing rods or spinnings. However, the lack of a full-fledged closed handbag in the basic version forces owners to organize storage spaces themselves using sealed tanks or bags.
- 🛶 Banks: Removable seats allow you to flexibly configure the space under load or fishing.
- 🎣 Convenience: The width of the cockpit is sufficient for comfortable catching of fish with medium gear.
- 📦 Storage: The lack of built-in drawers requires the purchase of additional equipment for order.
There's enough room for two adults and a child, three adults can fit, but it's going to be difficult to fish comfortably with three people because of the limited width, and every rower or angler should have a sufficient sector to tackle without hurting their neighbor.
⚠️ Warning: Do not overload the boat beyond normal. Even if the sides appear high, excess load capacity critically reduces stability and can lead to tipping over when passengers move sharply.
Many owners immediately after buying, think about upgrading the interior space, installing soft linings on banks, organizing mounts for sonar and navigator significantly improve the level of comfort, and installing a kunduk in the bow to store things that should remain dry.
Choosing a outboard motor for the Bester 390
One of the most important questions is which motor to choose for this model. Best 390 The plant is designed to accommodate outboard motors up to 10-12 hp, although some owners are experimenting with more powerful units, and the factory recommendation usually limits power to 10 hp for safety.
With a 5-6 hp engine, the boat confidently goes into plane with one person and a minimum load. The speed is about 20-25 km / h. This is an economical option that allows you to cover most of the tasks of an amateur fisherman, but the power reserve in windy weather or at full load may not be enough.
Installing the 9.9 hp engine dramatically changes the boat's behavior. planing is faster, it allows for confident movement with full load (2-3 people + equipment), speed increases to 30-35 km / h, which allows you to quickly reach remote fishing points.
When choosing a motor, you should consider its weight. Best 390 It has a relatively light hull, and a heavy four-stroke engine with high power can upset the balance, and the nose will be upside down, which will impair visibility and handling, requiring the transfer of the fuel tank closer to the nose or the use of counterweights.
When installing a four-stroke engine with a capacity of more than 6 hp on the Bester 390, it is recommended to shift the cans with seats slightly forward to compensate for the weight of the engine on the transom.
Driving and handling
On the water. Best 390 The flat bottom provides excellent parking stability, which is highly valued by anglers, and you can stand up to full height to throw gear or work with the net without fear of a strong roll.
However, on the move, especially on the wave, the lack of a pronounced keel affects the boat is prone to yaw (nose wag) on a straight course, which requires constant steering, on the side wave can be uncomfortable roll, and the blows against the wave can be quite tough.
Control is directly dependent on the installed transom plate and the position of the lower unit motor. Properly adjusting the angle of inclination of the engine allows you to minimize yaw and improve the yield on planing. Also, the course stability is affected by the length of the lower unit: a long leg is preferable for open water bodies.
When cornering, the boat enters with a noticeable roll to the outside, requiring the driver to be careful, especially at high speeds, and sharp maneuvers on plane can lead to loss of control or even overturning if the center of gravity is misaligned.
The 390 is a boat for calm water bodies, rivers and lakes. For high seas or large reservoirs with high waves, its driving performance may not be sufficient for a comfortable swim.
Maintenance and durability of operation
Aluminum alloy AMG5M is virtually non-corrosion-prone, but that doesn't mean no maintenance. After each saline foray, the boat must be thoroughly washed with fresh water, and neglecting this rule can lead to white plaque and, in rare cases, spot corrosion.
Special attention should be paid to the condition of the welds and the attachment places of the attachments. Vibration from the motor can weaken the fastener over time. Regular pulling of bolts and nuts is a mandatory procedure before each season.
☑️ Seasonal service to Bester 390
Keeping the boat upside down under a canopy or indoors is better. Direct sunlight and precipitation accumulating inside the hull can accelerate the aging of paint (if any) and accessories. Winter storage outdoors without a tent is not recommended.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use abrasive cleaning products to wash the case. They can damage the aluminum oxide film, which will reduce its protective properties. Use a soft sponge and special aluminum products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install a 390 engine with a capacity of 15 hp on Bester?
Technically, you can set it because the transom will hold, but it's not recommended by the manufacturer. Excess power can lead to excessive nose differentiation, reduced handling and violation of the rules for registration of small craft. Safe limit - 10-12 hp.
Do I need to paint the boat Bester 390?
The AMG5M alloy case does not require painting to protect against corrosion, as it is resistant to rust itself; it is purely aesthetic or used for camouflage; a special primer for non-ferrous metals is required before painting.
How many people are comfortable in the boat?
Comfortable in Best 390 Two adults are accommodated, three will fit, but space will be limited, which can affect the stability and convenience of fishing, maximum load capacity allows you to take three, but with a minimum supply of equipment.
What is the real speed with a 9.9 hp engine?
With a 9.9 hp engine and one driver, the GPS speed can reach 32-35 km / h. With a full load (3 people), the speed will drop to 25-28 km / h, but glides will remain provided the angle of the differential is correctly adjusted.