The search for a reliable and compact boat for fishing or cruising around the reservoir often leads outdoor enthusiasts to time-tested models of light alloy. Boat Little 2 For decades, it has remained one of the most popular options in its class due to its simplicity of design and accessibility, and owners value it for being able to quickly disassemble and transport in the trunk of a passenger car, making it ideal for those who do not have a trailer.
But like any technology with a rich history, this model has its own operating features that you should know about in advance. In this article, we have gathered real-world experience, technical nuances and opinions of those who have already gone through assembly and descent. design It will help you make an informed decision about your purchase.
Many people wonder whether to buy a used one or better look for new ones, and to understand this, you need to consider in detail all aspects of ownership of this boat, from the quality of assembly to behavior on the wave.
General specifications and construction of the shell
The basis of reliability is the material of the hull. aluminum-magnesium alloyThis is a design that has three main parts: the nose, the middle and the aft, which are connected by special locks and bolt joints, and this modularity allows you to transport a boat even on the roof of a small car or in a spacious station wagon.
The bottom is flat with a slight zygomatic curve, which is typical for flat-bottomed vessels, which provides excellent stability in calm water and makes it easy to go out into shallow water. water-water with strong wind or excitement, comfort is significantly reduced due to the lack of a V-shaped bottom, which better dissects the wave.
It is important to note that the geometry of the sides and transom is designed to accommodate an outboard motor up to 5 hp (although some manage to put more powerful units), the weight of the structure in the assembled form is about 80 kg, which requires the participation of two people to carry or use a wheeled trailer.
Features of Assembly and Disassembly on the Pond
The assembly process is a separate topic for discussion in the owner feedback. On the one hand, the mechanism seems simple, but on the other hand, it requires a certain skill and physical strength. longitudinal stringerThey're the ones that make the whole structure stiff, and they're the ones that prevent the bottom from going down under load.
For a good assembly, you need to carefully monitor the cleanliness of the lock joints. Sand or small pebbles that fall into the slots can prevent the sections from fitting tightly, which in the worst case will lead to leakage. Experienced users recommend always having a small brush to clean the locks before joining the parts.
☑️ Pre-assembly check
Particular attention should be paid to the installation longitudinal beamIf they do not stand smoothly, the boat can get inflected, which will adversely affect the performance and durability of the seams. Owners often advise lubricating rubbing surfaces with graphite lubrication or wax to facilitate the docking process, especially after winter storage.
Performance and behaviour on the water
On calm waters, such as a lake or reservoir in calm, the boat behaves predictably and steadily. The wide hull allows two fishermen with tackles to comfortably accommodate. flat-bottomedIt is not designed to overcome a big wave.
When you go out into the river with the current or in the presence of wind waves, comfort decreases. The boat begins to "slap" on the wave, which creates a characteristic noise and vibration transmitted to the hull. kielson Or makeshift rents, although the standard design does not presuppose them.
To reduce the noise of shocks to the wave, many owners stick on the bottom of the outside of the strip of vibration insulation or carpeting, which also protects the metal from abrasive wear.
Driveability is directly dependent on the power of the engine and the location of the load. When fully loaded and weak, the boat can not keep its course well, requiring constant operation with oars or a tiller for adjustment. The optimal is the use of a motor with a capacity of 3-5 hp, which allows a speed of about 10-12 km / h.
real owner reviews: pros and cons
By analyzing forums and communities of water motors, we can highlight the key points that users often mention, and opinions vary from enthusiastic to critical, but the overall picture allows us to create an objective portrait of the model.
Among the positive qualities are always called:
- 🚀 Compactness - the possibility of transportation in disassembled form in a passenger car.
- 💰 Affordable price Especially in the secondary market, where it is found in excellent condition.
- 🛠️ Repairability The simplicity of the design allows you to eliminate most breakdowns yourself.
- ⚓ Sustainable The wide hull does not allow the boat to easily capsize when moving fishermen.
However, there are also significant shortcomings that cannot be kept silent:
- ⚠️ Difficulty of assembly It is extremely difficult to assemble a boat quickly and efficiently alone.
- 🌊 Poor cruising on the wave The flat-bottomed body beats hard at choppy water.
- 🔩 Wear of locks Over time, the connection mechanisms may unravel, requiring adjustment.
- 🧊 Noise The lack of noise insulation makes staying in the boat louder when moving.
The secret to long service
Many owners recommend that after each season, completely disassemble the boat, clean all compounds of oxides and lubricate them with a special lubricant for aluminum alloys to prevent the "stick" of parts.
Comparison with competitors and modifications
There are several modifications and analogues on the market, with which the "Baby" is often compared. Crimea or various variants of "Kazanok", but they are usually heavier and more overall.
Below is a comparative table of specifications "Baby 2" with typical representatives of the class of small aluminum boats:
| Characterization | Baby 2 | Kazanka-M | Salute-N |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length, m | 3.0 | 3.2 | 2.9 |
| Width, m. | 1.35 | 1.20 | 1.30 |
| Weight, kg | ~80 | ~65 | ~55 |
| Load capacity, kg | 250 | 200 | 180 |
As you can see from the table, Baby offers a good balance between load capacity and dimensions, although it loses weight to more modern monoblock models. The choice depends on priorities: if maximum lightness and monolithicity are important, then other options are chosen, if you need to. transportability In a car without a roof - "Baby" is out of competition.
Maintenance and refinement
Aluminum alloy does not rust like steel, but is susceptible to oxidation and electrochemical corrosion, especially in salt water or in contact with heterogeneous metals. Regular inspection of the bottom and seams is mandatory. Particular attention should be paid to the attachment sites. cross-plate and locking connections.
⚠️ Attention: Never use copper or brass fasteners to repair the case, as this will result in rapid electrochemical corrosion of aluminum. Use only stainless steel or aluminum alloys.
A popular addition is the installation of soft seats and linings on board. Staff wooden cans are often hard and uncomfortable for long fishing. Many owners also install sonar brackets and rod holders, turning a simple rowing boat into a full-fledged fishing boat.
The main resource of boat durability is the timely cleaning and lubrication of lock joints after each operation, especially if the boat is used in silted water bodies.
Summary: Is it worth buying?
The Baby 2 is a time-tested option for those who value functionality and the ability to transport in the trunk, and it is not without the disadvantages of old school shipbuilding, but they are compensated by low cost and maintainability.
If you plan to fish in calm inland water bodies, have the ability to store a boat in a garage or apartment and are willing to devote time to the care of metal, this model will be a reliable assistant. V-shaped bottom.
Before buying a used copy, be sure to check the tightness of the compartments (often they are used as trunks) and the condition of the locks. A good "Baby" with proper care can last for more than a dozen years, delighting the owner with the simple joys of the water element.
Can I install a motor with a power of more than 5 hp?
Technically possible, but not recommended by the manufacturer, and overpowering the boat could tip over at full speed or damage the transom, and the maximum safe speed for such a design is limited.
How to keep a boat in winter?
The boat must be completely dry, cleaned of dirt and silt, lubricated locks and stored in a dry room, it is advisable to store it in disassembled form or on stands to avoid deformation of the hull.
Should I paint an aluminum boat?
Painting is not necessary to protect against corrosion, because the oxide film protects the metal, but the paint looks good and allows you to apply camouflage for fishing. Use only special paints for aluminum.
How many people can the boat Little 2?
Passport capacity is usually 2-3 people, but with equipment and motor, two adults are most comfortable.
Where can I find spare parts and seals?
There are few specialized parts, but rubber seals can be matched to the size of construction stores, and metal elements are often custom-made or searched for in disassemblies.