Choosing a boat for fishing or hunting in the vastness of Russia is always a search for a compromise between weight, strength and cost. Boat Bester 420 It occupies a unique niche in this segment, offering users a time-tested design of duraluminium, not just another boat with inflatable sides, but a full-fledged vessel with a rigid hull, able to withstand harsh operating conditions.
Many aquatic motorists consider this model as an ideal replacement for heavy "Kazanka" or unstable "Crimea". Best 420 This article combines the ease of transportation on the roof of a passenger car and sufficient seaworthiness for large bodies of water. In this article, we will examine in detail the technical nuances, hidden possibilities of modernization and the real experience of owning this legendary device.
Why has this model been in demand for years? The answer lies in its simplicity and maintainability. The boat body is made of aircraft alloy D16AT, which, if damaged, can be brewed or patched even in the field. Let's dive into the details of the design.
Design features and geometry of the body
Basis of reliability Best 420 The boat has a classic flat-kiled bottom shape, which provides excellent course stability when moving against the wave, and the angle of keeliness on the transom is about 8-10 degrees, which is the golden mean for calm water and small disturbances.
Welds are made by argon-arc welding, which guarantees their tightness and tensile strength. However, when buying a used copy, you need to carefully inspect the contact areas with the ground. duraluminium The material is durable, but corrosion (especially electrochemical when in contact with brass nuts or steel bolts) can be a serious problem if the boat is not monitored.
⚠️ Warning: When inspecting the used boat, be sure to check the state of the seams in the bow and along the zygomatic joints. The appearance of whitish plaque or microcracks indicates the beginning of corrosion processes that require immediate intervention.
Dimensions of the model allow you to comfortably accommodate two or three adults. the length of the hull is 420 cm, width - 160 cm Such dimensions formally allow you not to register the boat in GIMS, if the power of the installed engine does not exceed 10 hp, although in practice the owners often put the motors more powerful, which requires registration.
The geometry of the Bester 420 body is optimized for stability, but requires careful attention to protecting the metal from corrosion during prolonged parking on water.
Technical specifications and weight parameters
One of the big trump cards Best 420 The basic hull weighs about 70-75 kg, which allows one physically advanced person to take the boat off the trailer and flip it over, which is almost impossible with heavy Soviet boats like the Crimea or the Ob.
The boat's load capacity is stated by the manufacturer to be between 400 and 450 kg, which includes the weight of passengers, equipment, fuel and the engine itself. Real operation shows that when fully loaded, the boat lands on the water quite deep, so it is important to maintain balance.
Let’s look at the main parameters in the table for clarity:
| Parameter | Meaning | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Full length | 4200 mm | Excluding the attachments |
| maximum width | 1600 mm | In the zygomatic belt |
| Height of board | 450 mm | Enough to protect against splashes |
| Body weight | ~72 kg | Depends on the year of issue. |
| Passenger capacity | 3 people. | Including cargo up to 400 kg |
Importantly, the actual weight can vary depending on the thickness of the metal and the configuration, and some versions were equipped with a reinforced transc, which added several kilograms, but significantly increased the reliability of the engine mounting.
Engine installation: choice of motor
The question of which engine to choose for the Bester 420 is one of the most discussed on the forums. The design of the translator allows you to install outboard motors with a capacity of 2 to 15 hp, but here lies an important nuance: the regular transatlant often requires reinforcement for engines more powerful than 5 hp.
The optimal option for many owners consider two-stroke engines with a volume of 9.9 hp with the possibility of "smothering" up to 15 hp or modern four-strokes in the same range. Yamaha 9.9, Tohatsu 9.8 Chinese analogues (HDX, Sea-Pro) are showing excellent results.
When installing the engine, it is important to choose the right height of the suspension of the lower unit. Too deep landing of the screw creates additional resistance, and too high - leads to cavitation and overheating of the engine. On plane, a boat with one driver and 9.9 hp comes out confidently, developing speeds up to 25-28 km / h.
⚠️ Warning: When operating with motors with a capacity of more than 10 hp, it is strongly recommended to install additional buoyancy knobs in the nose, since the standard tightness may not be enough for safe return to shore in the event of a rollover.
Ergonomics and internal arrangements
Interior space Best 420 It's ascetic enough to offer a lot of customization options, and the basic version comes with two transom cans (seats) and a sleigh of wooden boards or plywood coated with varnish, and over time, the tree needs to be replaced or treated, because constant contact with water causes rot.
Many owners replace regular slate with aluminum grooved sheets or moisture-resistant plywood coated with carpet, which not only improves the appearance, but also increases comfort: the boat becomes warmer to sit, and it rattles less when moving along the wave.
- 🛶 transom plate: Often requires modification - the installation of an additional platform for mounting the sonar or sensor.
- 🛶 Runduks: The space under the seats can be used to store anchors, cables and ZIPs if sealed boxes are made.
- 🛶 Exceptions: It is better to replace regular keys for fun with turning ones, this will facilitate maneuvering in quiet weather without a motor.
In a small boat, every centimeter counts, and the installation of soft linings on board will not only protect clothing from cold metal, but also allow you to attach pockets for gear directly on board.
To improve comfort, use EVA foamed mats (like yoga mats) that are sliced to the size of the bottom, which perfectly insulate from the cold and extinguish the noise of steps on aluminum.
Tuning and modernization DIY
Owning an aluminum boat is rarely complete without the intervention of the hand of the master. Best 420 One of the most popular improvements is the installation of a windshield, which is a simple device made of Plexiglas or polycarbonate that changes the way you walk, protecting your face from the oncoming airflow and spray.
You can also often put soft linings on cans and boards, and you can do this yourself using 10-15 mm thick foam and leather, glue it with a special aerosol glue that is not afraid of moisture, and this upgrade makes a rigid stool in a comfortable place for hours of waiting for a stick.
The secret to a quiet move
Many owners paste the bottom of the boat outside with bitumen vibration insulation (car) which reduces the noise of rain and the splash of waves against the metal, making fishing more enjoyable, although it adds 3-5 kg of weight.
Safety is also a must-have, and running lights (top white and onboard red and green) are mandatory when getting on the water at night, and the simplest circuit can be assembled by yourself using LED tapes in a sealed profile and a 12V battery.
Comparison with competitors and analogues
There are many analogues on the market, such as the boats "Crimea", "Ob", "Salute" or modern models from "Master" and "Flagship". Best 420Unlike the Crimea, it is considerably easier and easier to transport. Compared to similar-sized PVC inflatable boats, the Bester is not afraid of sparks from a fire, sharp stones on the shore and dog claws.
But there are downsides: Aluminum is noisier than PVC when hit by a wave, and it is harder to fall asleep at night (although this is rarely done in such a small boat), and dural requires more care when you are dragging than hypalon or PVC with reinforcement.
☑️ Checklist before buying B/U Bester
If you're looking for a medium-reservoir "workhorse" that will last decades and not require complex maintenance, then this model is a valid one. It's a classic that has proven its viability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to register with GIMS for the boat Bester 420?
Registration is required if the boat with the engine installed exceeds 200 kg, or if the engine power exceeds 10 hp (8 kW). Since the hull itself weighs about 75 kg, you can put the engine up to 10 hp (up to 125 kg) and not register the vessel. However, the rules may change, always check the current information at the local GIMS office.
What is the maximum wave size of the 420 best?
The boat belongs to the class of small vessels and is designed for navigation in protected water areas (lakes, reservoirs, rivers) at a wave height of up to 0.6 meters (maximum 0.75 m).
Can I cook the 420 at home?
Yes, but only argon arc welding (TIG) using a filler of the same brand (D16 or analogue), conventional electric aluminum welding will not work and only spoil the material.
Where to find the best 420 tuning plans?
Original factory drawings can be found in the technical data sheet of the product (formular). For tuning (windshields, awnings) most often use patterns made directly from the boat, or look for ready-made solutions on specialized forums of water engines, where they share patterns.