Choosing a swimming aid for fishing or relaxing on the water is always a search for a balance between cost, quality of materials and functionality. Hunter boat 320 NDNDM (Low Pressure inflatable floor) has been a top seller in the budget segment for several years, causing a lot of controversy among water engines, some praised for its accessibility and simplicity, others criticized for the design features characteristic of the economy class.
In this article, we will discuss in detail what a model is. Hunter 320You'll learn about the real buoyancy specifications, the material features, and the nuances that vendors often keep silent about.
Company model range HunterBoats And the 320 is not an exception, but it's a classic, rigid transom inflator that's marketed as a universal solution for small bodies of water. universality The concept is relative, and to understand whether this boat is right for you, you need to look deeper than superficial advertising descriptions.
Now, it's worth noting that the design of NDND is very different from the classic slate mat or plywood floor. float-bottomIt's a form that keeps its shape through internal air pressure, not rigid elements, and it offers a number of advantages in transportation, but it imposes its limitations on operation.
Design features and materials
The basis of durability of any inflatable boat is the material. Hunter 320 It uses a five-layer reinforced PVC. To the touch, the material seems thin, but it is quite elastic. Tissue density It is stated by the manufacturer as 750 g/m2, which is the standard for the budget segment. It is important to understand that "reinforced" does not mean "impenetrable", and caution will still be required when mooring.
The key feature of the model is NDMA (Low Pressure inflatable floor) Unlike hard bottom models (HBBs), the floor is an inflatable structure that becomes rigid when pumped, which allows you to fold the boat into a compact backpack that fits seamlessly into the trunk of even a small sedan, and the weight assembled is about 35 kg, which for one person is palpable, but quite liftable.
⚠️ Warning: Do not pump the bottom of the NDND above the recommended pressure (usually 0.25-0.3 atm), especially in hot weather. Excess pressure can lead to deformation of the seams or rupture of the membrane inside the cylinder.
The trawler in this model is made of moisture-resistant plywood, plastic, removable and inserted into special pockets, and the tranza attaches to the cylinders by means of slings, which is a classic, but not the most reliable solution. sling They can stretch, require periodic lifting or replacement, and the corners of the transom are reinforced with metallic plates, which protects against impact when pulled ashore.
- 🚣 Material: PVC reinforced 750 g/m2 (5 layers).
- ⚖️ Load capacity: Officially up to 450 kg, but comfortable - 300-350 kg.
- 🎒 Boat weight: About 35 kg (without motor and equipment).
- 📏 Dimensions: Length 3.2 m, width 1.42 m.
The cylinders are divided into three independent compartments, which ensures safety on the water, even if one cylinder is damaged, the boat will remain afloat. anchor And a liner cable around the perimeter, which you can hold when you swim or pull the boat ashore.
Assembly and preparation for launching
Assembly process Hunter 320 NDLD It takes a lot of skill and time, especially the first time, and unlike hard-bottom boats, you can't just throw the floor and jump in, you have to pump the cylinders, you have to put in a transom, and then you start pumping the bottom.
☑️ Boat assembly algorithm
Bottom inflating is the most important thing. foot-pump With a double-acting, or high-quality, pressure-controlled electric pump, it's very difficult and long to pump the bottom to the desired stiffness, and when you use an electric pump, it's important not to overheat it and keep track of the gauge.
After the full pump, the boat has to sit down for 10 to 15 minutes on the shore, and during that time, the PVC will stretch under pressure, and the pressure inside the cylinders may drop a little bit. It's normal physical process. If you put the boat on the water right after assembly, it can become soft in half an hour, which will impair the performance.
Laying the boat back in the bag also has its nuances: you need to carefully drive all the air to keep the volume to a minimum. The bottom of the NDNDM takes up more space when folded up than flat plywood, so the twisting technique here is critical to getting into the case.
Driving qualities and behavior on the water
How he behaves. Hunter 320 That's probably the most interesting question. The boat is designed to have outboard motors up to 5 hp (maximum 6 hp with caution). With a 2.5-3.5 hp engine, the boat is confidently glides with one person on board. With two passengers, the plane depends on the weight of the passengers and the load.
Due to the inflatable floor, the boat has an excellent floatability The waves are extinguished at the bottom, making it comfortable to be on the water even with a little excitement, but because of the lack of a hard keel, the boat tends to yaw (wagging its nose) on the course, especially in lateral winds or waves.
To improve the exchange rate stability, many owners install removable balk It's a lot better handling, but it adds weight and complexity to the assembly, and without the keel, the boat is more suited to calm waters like lakes, ponds, quiet rivers.
The speed performance of a 3.5 hp engine is about 15-18 km/h with one person, fuel consumption remains minimal, making this bundle ideal for long-distance crossings in search of fish places. However, when fully loaded (two people + equipment), the boat goes into displacement mode, and the speed drops to 5-7 km/h.
Table of technical specifications
And for clarity, we'll put the basic parameters in a table, and this data will help you compare them. Hunter 320 Competitors from other manufacturers, such as Flagship, Mev. or Aqua.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Total length | 320 cm | Excluding attachments |
| general width | 142 cm | On the outer cylinders |
| Diameter of the cylinder | 36 cm | Standard for 320 boats |
| Load capacity | 450 kg | Passport (real less) |
| Engine power | up to 5 hp | 3.5 hp is recommended. |
It's worth noting that the actual usable area of the cockpit is smaller than the outer dimensions. The cylinders take up a significant amount of space, so two large men with backpacks will be a little crowded here. The optimal load is one angler with tackles or two lovers of quiet fishing without extra load.
Comparison with competitors and modifications
There are many modifications of the 320s boats on the market. Hunter 320 R (with a hard floorboard bottom) or Hunter 320 LC What's the difference? The NDND version is better in packing compactness, but it's less fast and stable than the squirrel version. Hard bottom boats (HBBs) are faster on the plane and better on course, but they're harder to transport.
Compared to competitors, Hunter But the materials in the brands are the same. Badger or RiverBoats Hunter often complains about the quality of the glue and the accuracy of the seams, although in recent years the situation has improved.
⚠️ Note: When buying, pay attention to the date of production. PVC tends to age even in a warehouse. A boat that has been in the store for 5 years may require valve replacement or gluing of seams immediately after the first season.
It is also worth mentioning the presence of discharge-valve Hunter 320 NDND often comes with it, or it comes as an option. The valve is critical for easy fishing, allowing water to drain without lifting the boat upside down.
The secret to the longevity of seams
To extend the life of the boat after each season (especially if it was operated in salt water or with sand), it is recommended to treat the seams with a special air conditioner for PVC. This prevents rubber drying and the appearance of microcracks.
Typical problems and maintenance
Like any budget-class equipment, Hunter 320 It has its own pains. One of the common problems is unsticking the transaxial forces or slings, and this is treated with high-quality glue, using a two-part glue (like a Kleyberg or a Texacol) and an activator. Self-repair is possible at home.
Another thing is valves, and over time, rubber valve seals can tan or become contaminated with sand, so they poison the air, and regular cleaning and grease with silicone can help avoid this problem. pens for carrying on cylinders can break off when overloaded, so it is better to drag the boat, wrapping the cylinders with your hands or using special belts.
The maintenance of the NDND boat requires regular drying. Although the bottom is inflatable, moisture can accumulate between it and the protective carpet (if any) or simply inside the cockpit. The dampness leads to mold that destroys the fabric. After each fishing, it is advisable to wipe the boat dry.
Keep the boat straightened or half-assembled at room temperature. Don't leave it in the cold or in direct sunlight for long periods of time, which is the main enemy of PVC.
Summary: Take or Not Take?
Boat. Hunter 320 NDLD It's a compromise solution, ideal for beginners who want to try a boating but don't want to spend a lot of money on a boat and a powerful engine, and it's also a good choice for fishermen who get to the pond in a car without a trailer and appreciate the compactness.
However, if you are planning frequent outings to large reservoirs where the wave often rises, or you need top speed and stability, it is better to look towards hard bottom boats (HBV) or models with inflatable keel (NKV) from more premium manufacturers. Hunter 320 It is a “workhorse” for calm water bodies and leisurely fishing.
The main conclusion: Hunter 320 NDNDM is the best choice for entering the world of hydraulics on a limited budget, but requires careful handling and understanding of the limitations of NDNDM design.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific tasks. If you want a boat to be, for rare trips to the lake with a fishing rod, this option will pay off. If you are a fan of speed and extreme fishing, maybe you should add a budget and consider more serious models.
Save on fuel
Boats with bottom NDND often have slightly higher water resistance than rigid ones, but when using low-power engines (2-3.5 hp), the difference in fuel consumption is minimal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I put a 5 hp engine on Hunter 320 NDND?
Technically, yes, the transom will withstand. However, with a full load (2 people + load), the 5 hp engine may not bring the boat to the plane due to the shape of the bottom of the NDNDM. Optimally, 3.5 hp, a maximum of 4 hp for one angler.
How long does it take to assemble and disassemble a boat?
The first time you'll spend about 40 to 50 minutes sorting out the pump and the laying. Hunter 320 15-20 minutes at a calm pace.
Do I need to buy a separate anchor for this boat?
Yes, it is desirable. For a boat 3.2 meters long and weighing about 200 kg crew, the optimal weight of the anchor is 3-4 kg. You can use a folding anchor or a homemade pipe. A light anchor simply will not keep the boat in the wind.
Is the NDNDM material afraid of punctures?
PVC reinforced is better resistant to puncture than regular rubber, but spines, sharp stones and shells are contraindicated. The use of a protective mat (tread) at the bottom inside the cockpit is highly recommended.
What warranty period does the manufacturer give?
Usually a factory. HunterBoats However, the warranty often does not cover damages resulting from improper operation (pumping, sharp impacts, cold storage).