Choosing a swimming aid for fishing or family vacations on the water often becomes a difficult task that requires a balanced approach. Boat Quintrex 390 It's an interesting solution in the inflatables segment, combining compactness and high payload capacity, and many aquatic motorists see it as a compromise between maneuverable double seats and heavy four-meter flat-bottoms.
In this review, we will analyze in detail the design features, quality of materials and real driving qualities of this vessel. Quintrex It has established itself as a brand offering affordable solutions, but what is the case with a particular 390? The answers to these questions will help you make your final buying decision.
It's worth noting that this model is often the subject of controversy in outdoor communities, with some praising it for being unpretentious, others pointing to features that need to be refined. boatwork At the selection stage, you will avoid disappointments and additional investments in the future.
Design features and materials
The basis of the durability of any inflatable vessel is the material from which it is made. Quintrex 390 It is made from reinforced polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is usually 750 or 850 g/sq.m. This is the standard indicator for the budget and mid-price segment, providing a balance between strength and weight of the product.
The design of the bottom deserves special attention. Most modifications use a low-pressure inflatable floor (LDPB) or a hard plywood/aluminum floorboard. inflatable floor It provides better wave germination and handling comfort, whereas a hard floor gives stability in the parking lot and the ability to install a more powerful motor, depending on the use cases.
⚠️ Warning: When buying, be sure to check for protective tape at the junction of cylinders and bottom. The absence of this tape can lead to rapid abrasion of the material on the rocky shore or shell.
The 390 cylinders are of a characteristic shape, which ensures good stability. Internal hinges, if provided by the design of a particular batch, serve not only to protect the side, but also add rigidity to the axles. Quality of stitches This is a critical parameter: they must be boiled hot, not just glued together, which guarantees tightness for many years of operation.
Technical specifications and dimensions
To understand how much quintrex 390 So this is a good fit for your task, you have to go to dry numbers, and the dimensions of this model allow you to transport it in the trunk of most station wagons or even hatchbacks, provided you fold the floorboards, and here's a table with the basic parameters that will help you navigate the space.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Total length | 390 cm | Full length of cylinders |
| Cockpit width | 150-160 cm | Workspace |
| Load capacity | 600 kg | Including boat and motor weight |
| Weight of kit | 45-55 kg | Depends on the gender type. |
The vessel's capacity allows two adults to comfortably accommodate with a full suite of fishing gear, and a third passenger will also fit, but this will have an impact on the crew. draft The recommended engine ranges from 5 to 15 horsepower, making the model versatile for different water bodies.
Presence transom-wheelAnchor dips and other accessories add a few kilograms, which is essential when carrying a boat to the water alone, and always consider this factor when planning trips to the wild shores.
Driving and handling
Conduct Quintrex 390 The boat is very much dependent on the power and loading it has, and at low speeds it behaves in a predictable and steady manner, which is ideal for trolling or catching in overgrown bays, and even with two passengers on a 9.9 hp engine, the plane is possible, although the speed will be moderate.
When installing a 15 hp engine, the boat demonstrates excellent dynamics. Speed on water. It can reach 30-35 km/h depending on the excitement and weight of the crew, but it is worth considering that the flat bottom (in the versions with floorboard) can give tangible blows on the oncoming wave, requiring the operator to be attentive.
To improve driving performance, try hydraulic wings on the engine's lower unit, which will reduce yaw and improve the planing output with full load.
High speed handling requires habituation. Short aft promotes turnaround, but in windy weather the boat can demolish. rate stabilizers Or a properly tuned squirrel wheel helps compensate for this effect and keep a straight course without constant thrusters.
Comfort and ergonomics of the cockpit
The interior of the 390 is designed to meet the basic needs of the angler, and the perimeter liner cable allows for easy attachment of gear or life jackets. The seats that are included in the basic configuration are usually made of soft-coated plywood, but many owners prefer to replace them with more comfortable ones. seat-chair.
The bow is accessed through a special passageway between cylinders or through a folding transom sheet, if any, which is ideal for storing an anchor or dry bag of things. Ergonomics of landing allows you to stay in the boat for a long time without running out of legs, which is important for multi-day expeditions.
⚠️ Warning: Don't overload the bow with heavy loads. Shifting the center of gravity forward can cause the nose to bury in the wave and loss of control, which is dangerous even in calm water.
The cockpit has special pockets and mounts to fix the equipment, but these may not be enough for avid spinners who use a lot of small things, in which case it is more rational to purchase additional organizers that are attached to the board or floorboard, keeping order in the air. work-space.
Assembly, installation of the motor and preparation for descent
Assembly process Quintrex 390 It doesn't require any special skills, but following the sequence of actions will prolong the life of the product, first decompose and inflate the bottom (if it's inflatable), then the cylinders, the pressure must be consistent with the manufacturer's recommendations, usually 0.2-0.25 atm for cylinders.
☑️ Season preparation checklist
Installation of the motor requires special attention to the height of the transom. Anti-cutting plate The lower unit should be on the same level with the bottom of the boat or 1-2 cm lower. Incorrect installation will lead to cavitation, engine overheating and speed reduction. Use rods to fix, providing a reliable pressing without damaging the transaxboard.
Before each descent, conduct a visual inspection. coatboard Even microcracks in these areas can have serious consequences on the water, and after operation, be sure to wash the boat with fresh water, especially if you have been swimming in salt water or a body of water with abundant vegetation.
Typical problems and their solution
Like any other technical product, quintrex 390 It can have a number of specifications that owners attribute to disadvantages: one of the common problems is peeling off coamings or decor elements when actively operating in the sun, you just need to use a special glue for PVC and a degreaser for repairs.
Another common issue is the hardness of the inflatable floor in cold weather. If you plan to fish in early spring or late autumn, it is worth considering insulation or using mats. Stiffness of material It also affects packaging: in the cold, you need to fold the boat extremely carefully so as not to break PVC.
The secret to fast drying
To quickly dry the boat after the trip, use the car compressor in blow mode (if there is a return valve) or simply leave it spread out in the shade in the wind. Direct sunlight when drying is undesirable, as it can unevenly warm the air inside and damage the seams.
Owners also note that regular carry bags are sometimes cramped, especially when packing the boat hastily. It is recommended to develop your own stowage system so that all items enter the bag without excessive effort, which can damage the boat. packaging Or lightning.
Comparison with competitors and final verdict
There are many analogues on the market, such as Flagship, hunter or Aqua. Quintrex 390 They are often more affordable at comparable performance, but competitors may offer richer basic equipment, including bags, pumps or reinforced floorboards.
Compared to more expensive brands, the difference will be felt in the quality of fittings and material density. For beginners or those who use a boat several times a season, the 390 will be a great entry ticket to the world of water sports, and professionals can appreciate it as a lightweight boat for short trips.
Quintrex 390 is the best choice for amateur anglers looking for a balance between price, capacity and transportability, ready to put up with some features of budget materials.
In conclusion, it may be said that quintrex 390 It's not without its drawbacks, but it's completely remediable or not critical to its intended use, and if properly maintained and operated, this vessel will last you for years, enjoying fishing and cruising.
⚠️ Warning: Never leave a fully pumped boat in direct sunlight for long periods of time unattended, and the pressure inside the cylinders rises with temperature and may exceed the permissible limits, causing the seams to rupture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install a 390 engine with 18 hp on Quintrex?
Technically, it is possible to install, since the transom will withstand the load, but this is beyond the manufacturer's recommendations. Excess capacity This can cause a loss of stability, especially in sharp turns or on the wave, and create a dangerous situation for passengers.
What is the best glue for repairing PVC of this boat?
The best results are shown by two-component polyurethane adhesives, which require careful cleaning and degreasing before gluing the surface. polymerization They are less resistant to the stresses of the break.
Do I need to lubricate the valves, and what to do?
Yes, periodic valve lubrication is necessary to prevent sticking and to ensure tightness, and it is best to use silicone lubricant, which is not aggressive to rubber and plastic. Oil lubricants They can not be used, as they can destroy the structure of seals.
How many people can comfortably fish in boat 390?
Two adults are comfortable, and a third passenger will fit, but it will significantly reduce the space for maneuver with fishing rods and affect the performance. 420 cm and higher.