The choice of a swimmer is always a compromise between the desired specifications and the budget, and in the segment of inflatable boats from PVC, the brand "Fregat" occupies a special niche. Many potential buyers before making a purchase study the boat frigate reviews, trying to understand how the actual operation corresponds to the advertising promises of the manufacturer. flyboat This brand is often the subject of heated debates in fishing forums.
On the one hand, we see affordable prices and a wide range of models, and on the other, there are conflicting opinions about seam durability and water behavior in high winds. In this article, we systematize the experience of real users, analyze the technical nuances of the design and find out who exactly for whom. frigate It is the perfect choice, and who better to look for an alternative.
It is worth noting that the overall impression often depends on the operating conditions: a calm fishing on the lake and a high-speed plane with full load are two completely different scenarios for using the same product.
General impression of owners and quality of materials
Analyzing the array of data from users, it can be distinguished that the main material is reinforced PVC Most owners agree that the material feels strong enough to feel dense enough to give a sense of reliability during the initial inspection, but long-term use makes its own adjustments to the initial delights.
Some users note that after 2-3 seasons of active fishing, the material on board can begin to slightly "blown" in the cold or, conversely, overstretch in the scorching sun, requiring constant pumping.
- 🔹 Positive reviews often concern the pleasing texture of the fabric and the absence of a sharp chemical odor after unpacking.
- 🔹 Negative comments are most often associated with the appearance of microcracks on the folds after several years of storage in a deflated state.
- 🔹 The color scheme is evaluated positively, since camouflage colors really help to disguise on the water.
It is important to understand that reinforced polyvinyl chloride It's a complex composite, and its properties are directly dependent on the quality of the adhesive and the technology for layering. frigateManufacturers sometimes save on plasticizers, which over time can lead to a decrease in elasticity.
⚠️ Warning: If you notice that the boat is losing pressure faster than usual in hot weather, it is not always a sign of puncture. Check the quality of the valve gluing, as the glue may temporarily soften when heated.
Design of seams: welding or gluing?
One of the most discussed issues in the context of reliability is the technology of connecting the elements of the hull. frigate Traditionally, they're glued together, although current trends dictate the transition to hot air welding, and owners have split into two camps: some praise the repairability of adhesive seams, others fear they will dissect.
The glue seam with the right application technology provides high leakage, but it is more sensitive to temperature disturbances in production. If the plant has allowed a defect or used cheap glue, then in a couple of seasons it can begin to be flaking in the area of thongs or transoms.
On the other hand, many anglers have been successfully operating their boats for more than 5-7 years without any seam problems, which suggests quality lottery or the importance of proper care.
☑️ Checking the stitches before buying
Particular attention should be paid to the area of the sticker transomBecause that's where the maximum load is when you're driving for an outboard motor, and that's where the most common problem is for those who are not following the rules.
Driving qualities and seaworthiness on the water
Driving performance is directly dependent on the design of the bottom. NDMA (low pressure inflatable floor) shows excellent wave swelling and comfort when driving, but loses in speed to models with floorboard bottom. Reviews confirm that on NDNDM the boat behaves predictably and gently cushioning impacts.
Owners of flatbed models (aluminum or plywood floor) note a higher speed of getting on plane, but complain of rigidity and noise, while the aluminum floor profile in some versions can slide along the cockpit if there is no reliable fixation.
| Type of bottom | Speed. | Comfort. | Weight gathered |
|---|---|---|---|
| NDMA | Medium | Highly | Harder. |
| Paiola (aluminum) | High. | Low. | Easy. |
| floorboards (plywood) | Medium | Medium. | Medium. |
| Slate. | Low. | Low. | Minimum |
The seaworthiness also depends on the shape of the cylinders. cylinders provide good protection from splashes, but with a strong side wind, the boat can be strongly demolished, which requires constant engine operation or the presence of high-quality fins.
Some users complain of yawing at high speeds, which is often solved by installing an additional keel or adjusting the location of the motor on the transom.
How do you improve your driving performance?
Installing an anti-cavitation plate on the motor, the correct selection of the screw pitch and balancing the load of the boat (passengers and cargo) can significantly reduce yaw and increase speed.
Ergonomics, assembly and ease of use
The issue of assembly is often the deciding one for singles. frigate With paiola bottoms, it takes time and physical effort to install, especially in cold weather when the material becomes stiff. Owners write that the process of installing stringers and spreading the floor can take 15 to 40 minutes.
The models with NDNDM are a win-win: they are easy to spread and pump, but the weight of such boats in the transport bag can be significant, making it difficult to carry alone, especially if the distance from the car to the water is large.
- 🔹 Seat comfort is evaluated in different ways: staffed inflatable cans are often scolded for instability and slippage.
- 🔹 The presence of pockets and rod mounts on cylinders is a useful functionality that is highly valued by anglers.
- 🔹 The quality of the bag-pack is often called a weak point: lightning can catch, and the fabric can be quickly wiped.
The ergonomics of the cockpit also depend on the model, and in some versions, legroom may not be enough for tall people, especially if installed. motor-stack Or additional equipment.
⚠️ Warning: Never use sharp objects to level the floorboards inside the boat. One awkward move can lead to expensive repairs that won't cover the warranty.
To make it easier to assemble a solder boat in the cold season, bring it into a warm room a few hours before getting on the water. This will make PVC elastic and simplify floor installation.
Comparison with competitors and price positioning
In the budget segment, frigate It competes with brands such as hunter, Mev. and FlagshipCompared to the Hunter, the Frigate often wins in design and configuration, but may be inferior in thickness to the PVC used. Comparison with the Menev shows parity, but Mnev often has a more conservative but time-tested design.
Price positioning allows these boats to be considered an entry-level solution for beginners or those who like to relax fishing. Professionals who demand maximum reliability in extreme conditions are more likely to look towards more expensive brands such as: Badger or Zodiac.
An important argument for the "pro" is the availability of spare parts and repair kits. Finding glue or a piece of fabric for repairing the frigate in any city of Russia is much easier than for some imported counterparts.
Secondary liquidity should also be taken into account: popular models hold the price well in the market of used goods, which is important for those who plan to upgrade in the future.
Typical problems and their solutions
Despite the overall reliability of the boats frigate There are a number of "childhood diseases" that you should know about beforehand, and most often, owners experience air poisoning through valves or microscopic pores in tissue that manifest themselves when temperatures drop.
Another common problem is peeling off the timbers, which is caused by dirt or moisture in the adhesive layer when assembled, or by the manufacturer's use of poor-quality glue, and the problem is solved by completely re-adhesively using two-component polyurethane adhesives.
The transom can deform when you install too powerful motor, exceeding the recommended power. passport restrictions horsepower.
Timely prevention and proper care (washing, drying, storage in heat) can extend the life of the budget boat Frigate 1.5-2 times, making it competitive with more expensive analogues.
In conclusion, the Frigate is a working tool that requires understanding its features, and it doesn't forgive negligence, but when properly maintained, it serves faithfully for many seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What glue is better to use for repairing the frigate boat?
For quality repairs, it is recommended to use two-component polyurethane adhesives, such as Kleyberg or Wurth. They provide a seam that is not inferior in strength to the factory. Conventional "moments" give only a temporary effect.
Can I leave the boat Frigate in the sun?
Long exposure to direct sunlight is not recommended for any PVC boat. Ultraviolet destroys the structure of the polymer, and heating leads to excessive pressure inside the cylinders, which can cause seam strain or even rupture.
Which engine is better for the 320?
For a model with a length of 3.2 meters, the optimal choice will be a motor with a capacity of 5-8 hp This will provide a confident getting on plane with one or two passengers. Installation of the engine more powerful than 10 hp can be dangerous and impractical due to the limitations of the transom design.
How to keep a boat in the winter?
The boat must be thoroughly washed, dried and folded in a free state (not tight), stored in a dry room at plus temperature, away from the heating appliances, it is not recommended to leave the boat in a deflated state under heavy objects.