Choosing the first boat is always about finding a balance between cost, quality of materials and functionality. Hummingbird CM 300 It's proven to be one of the most affordable options for going out into the water, and it's a very compact, assembled, lightweight, and it allows you to use it even without a car.
However, the low price often hides nuances that are worth knowing before buying. inflatable floor This model provides acceptable comfort, but imposes limits on engine power and operating conditions. In this article, we will discuss the design, real-world capabilities and typical problems faced by owners.
Company model range hummingbird (Ukraine) is primarily aimed at the mass consumer looking for a simple solution for fishing in small water bodies. The CM series is characterized by the use of a classic assembly scheme and time-tested materials. The density of PVC fabric here varies depending on the lot, but usually corresponds to the declared 850 g / sq.m., which is the standard for the budget segment.
It is important to understand that 3m long In this case, it's a full size, including inflatable tubes, and the cockpit's working area is much smaller, which affects the placement of cargo and passengers. bottom (NDND), which makes the boat softer on the go, but less resistant to puncture compared to the soldering options.
⚠️ Note: Do not use the boat on a rocky bottom or in thickets with sharp stems without an additional protective mat, as the regular bottom may not withstand mechanical impact.
Design features and materials
The basis of durability of any inflatable boat is the quality of the seams and the density of the reinforcement of the fabric. KM 300 five-layer reinforced PVCThe seams are made by gluing, which requires periodic monitoring of the condition, especially after a long winter.
The cylinders are divided into three independent compartments, which is a critical safety feature: if one of the cylinders is damaged, the other two will keep the vessel buoyant; the cylinders are 36 cm in diameter, which provides enough air to keep two people afloat, but makes the sides quite high relative to the width of the cockpit.
- 🛡️ Tissue density: The claimed 850 g/sq.m. provides good abrasion resistance, but is inferior to more expensive models with a density of 1100 g/sq.m.
- ⚓ ProtectionOn the bow and in the area of the transom are installed seat belts, protecting the sides from impacts on the pier or the sides of other boats.
- 🔧 FurnitureFrog valves allow you to quickly pump and lower the boat, but require careful handling of the plug key.
The trayboard is made of moisture-resistant plywood and is covered with special enamel, mounting to the cylinders is carried out through pockets and slings. cross-plate (if any) or the board itself has not shifted, as this can lead to distortion and a set of water.
To extend the life of the valves, wipe them from sand and dirt before closing, otherwise the tightness may be broken already in the first season.
Boat assembly and assembly
Standard equipment Hummingbird CM 300 It usually includes the boat itself, two inflatable seats (bank seats), a remix, a bag-package and a product passport. Sometimes the kit includes a pump, but its quality often leaves much to be desired, so experienced users recommend buying a more powerful bipedal or electric counterpart.
The assembly process takes about 10 to 15 minutes if you're skilled, and the cylinders are pumped to the working pressure, then the keel and bottom, and it's important to be consistent: if you pump the bottom first, and then the cylinders, the boat can drive, and it will take the wrong geometric shape.
☑️ Boat assembly procedure
The seats in this model are inflatable cushions with a rigid base, and they are attached to the sides using the help of a rigid airbag. lyctroses This allows them to move along the side, choosing the optimal position for rowing or motor control, but when fully loaded, the seats can be wobbled, which reduces comfort when standing on the water for long periods.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Full length | 300cm | Including cylinders |
| Full width | 140cm | Outward dimensions |
| Cockpit length | 220 cm | Work area |
| Cockpit width | 65 cm | Internal size |
| Load capacity | 350 kg | Considering the weight of the boat |
The packaging bag is made of a thin but durable material, and when folded, the boat takes up a little space, but you should consider the volume of the pump and anchor, which also need to be placed somewhere. The maximum load capacity of 350 kg is theoretical and does not mean comfortable accommodation of two adult men with motor and equipment.
Driving performance and management
On the water. Hummingbird CM 300 The soft bottom is very good at cushioning small waves, making it comfortable to swim even in light winds, but the lack of a hard keel affects stability: the boat can sniff around slightly when it moves against the wave.
The oar handling is mediocre because of its wide hull and high-side, which creates sailing. It's quite difficult to row alone over long distances. The main purpose of the model is to make short transitions or use it as a tender boat. For serious fishing with sonar and boxes, it's better to consider models with a hard floorboard bottom.
When installing the motor, it is important not to exceed the recommended power. KM 300 is 5 hp, but the best option will be a motor of 2-3 hp A more powerful engine will raise the nose of the boat too high, which will lead to a wave and a decrease in speed.
⚠️ Warning: When moving on a plane with a passenger on the nose, the boat may lose its turn stability. Always spread the weight evenly or sit closer to the transom.
Motor potential and equipment attachment
The sleeves are a weakness of many budget boats, but in the hummingbird It's pretty well implemented, and the squirrel board pockets are reinforced with additional bands, but when you install a motor that weighs more than 15 kg, it's recommended that you use transom wheels or extra support to avoid putting too much stress on the mounting points.
There are minimal options for mounting equipment (rod holders, sonars, crates) in the boat, and you can't attach anything directly to the cylinders, only to special belts or bottom stringers, if they are provided by modification. Many fishermen use special platforms that lie on the floor, but in the water, they can be used to make the boats more comfortable. KM 300 With its soft bottom, it can be uncomfortable.
- 🎣 Fishing: Ideal for fishing in reed-covered areas where high speed is not required and silence is important.
- ⛵ Sailing: The high side creates a sail effect, so in windy weather, control can be difficult without an anchor.
- ⚖️ BalancingThe center of gravity is shifted to the transom when installing the motor, which requires accuracy when boarding passengers.
If you plan to use the boat mainly for an outboard motor, it makes sense to immediately purchase it. door-wheelThey will make it much easier to launch and climb ashore, because when assembled, a motorized boat and a tank will weigh 40-50 kg, which is difficult for one person to carry.
Secrets to increasing speed
Some users are experimenting with hydraulic wings, which on NDW boats have little effect, but the main gain in speed is the correct loading and positioning of the transom.
Care, storage and repair
Term of service Hummingbird CM 300 After each fishing trip, the boat must be thoroughly washed with fresh water, especially if you have been swimming in a salty body of water or in contaminated water, and the sand left in the folds works like an abrasive and rubs PVC from the inside.
Keep the boat straightened or half-blown in a warm room. Dramatic temperature changes and storage in the cold make the plastic fragile. If the boat is stored in the garage in winter, it is recommended to periodically (once a month) pump the cylinders to avoid deep folds on the folds.
In the case of a puncture, the repair is done with a remix that is included in the supply, the surface is degreased, the glue is applied (usually polyurethane), and a patch is placed of the same material, and it is important to tightly press the patch and let the glue dry according to the instructions, usually this takes 24 hours.
The main enemy of PVC boats is not punctures, but ultraviolet light and improper storage.
Comparison with competitors and final verdict
There are many analogues in the market, such as frigate, hunter or barkCompared to them. Hummingbird CM 300 It's a win-win in price and compactness, but it's a loser in stiffness and configuration, and it's a workhorse for those who don't want to overpay for brands, but want a functional vessel.
The main advantage of the model is its versatility for beginners: it forgives many operating errors, is easy to repair and is inexpensive, but for professional fishing or frequent outings in large water with full load, it is better to consider more serious models with an inflatable keel and a hard floorboard bottom.
In the end, Hummingbird CM 300 It's a great choice for summer cottages, small lakes and calm rivers, it doesn't require complex maintenance and is easily transported in the trunk of a car, and if your boat requirements are limited to weekend rolling and fishing in good weather, it will fully justify the investment.
When buying, pay attention to the date of production. PVC boats have the property of "aging" even in stock, so try to take a model no older than 1-2 years from the date of release.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the hummingbird KM 300 put the engine more powerful than 5 hp?
Technically, it's possible, but it's dangerous, because overpowering the transom will overload the stern, deform the aft and lose control, and the boat can fold into a house or get punctured by hitting a wave.
What is the best glue for repairing PVC of this boat?
The best repair is a two-part polyurethane adhesive, which provides chemical welding of the seam, and the usual rubber adhesives ("moment") give a temporary effect and can be removed under load.
How long does the glue dry during repair in the field?
Full polymerization takes 24 hours at a temperature of +20 ° C. However, you can operate a boat with a minimum load after 4-6 hours, if high-quality glue is used and degreasing technology is observed.
Should I lower the boat overnight if it is tied to the shore?
At night, the temperature drops, the pressure in the cylinders decreases, and the boat may shrink, and in the morning, in the sun, the pressure will increase, which can lead to rupture of the seams, it is better to keep the boat in the shade or completely lower.