The search for a reliable and affordable boat for fishing or family recreation on the water often leads enthusiasts to consider the products of the Novosibirsk plant "Metal Service". aluminum boat Ob 3It's one of the most popular and talked about vessels in its class, and water-powered motorists appreciate it for its simplicity, maintainability and capacity, but like any other vehicle, it has its own features that you should know about before you buy it.
Many potential buyers are looking for information not so much in official directories, but in real ones. feedbackIt's a smart approach, because factory performance is often different from what happens in real water, turbulence and constant load, and in this article, we've gathered and analyzed the experiences of hundreds of fishermen and tourists to give you a complete picture.
It should be noted immediately that Ob 3 It's a classic Kazanka with improved performance, but it's devoid of some of its predecessors' shortcomings, and if you're faced with a choice between a used version and a new vessel, or if you're comparing it to competitors like the Crimea or Volzhanka, this material will help you weigh the pros and cons without embellishment.
General specifications and design features
Constructively Ob 3 This is a modified version of the legendary Obi, but with significant changes in the geometry of the body. aluminum-magnesium alloy The AMg5M, which is highly corrosion-resistant, critical for use in fresh and even low-salt water, is riveted, providing additional strength for the seams, although it requires periodic monitoring of tightness.
The most important feature of the model is the presence of boulder - inflatable or rigid cylinders (depending on the modification and year of release), which significantly increase the stability of the vessel, this allows you to safely navigate the hull even on the wave without fear of a sharp roll.
The bottom of the boat has a moderate squintiness, which provides a good squinting wave, but it maintains stability in quiet water. The nose is raised, which reduces the likelihood of splashing when moving against the wind. console steering, which is the standard for modern modifications, although there are rare versions with rumpled control.
- 🚤 Dimensions: The length is 4.5 meters, width is 1.7 meters, which makes the boat convenient for transportation on a standard trailer.
- ⚓ Load capacity: Officially declared up to 400 kg, but practice shows the possibility of transporting more weight if the rules of distribution are met.
- 🔩 Material: The thickness of the bottom and sides varies, but on average it is 2 mm, which is considered the norm for this class.
- 🌊 Capacity: It is designed for 4-5 people, including the driver, with the possibility of installing a full-fledged windscreen.
It is reinforced and designed to install an outboard motor with a capacity of up to 30 hp, although many owners put more powerful units. with. is about 35-40 km / h, which is enough for comfortable movement in the waters of reservoirs and large rivers.
Real experience of operation: pros and cons
Studying reviews Over the last few years, there's been a clear list of benefits that outweigh the scales in favor of buying. resilienceBecause of the boules, the boat doesn't fall on board when fishermen move inside the cockpit, which is especially appreciated by those who are engaged in spinning or sheer glitter fishing, where a static position is important.
The second important plus is capacityUnlike the narrow "Kandaks", Ob 3 can be accommodated in four with a full set of equipment. Wide cans (seats) allow you to sit comfortably, and a flat bottom allows you to easily move around the cabin. Many people note that the boat is excellent at planing with one or two passengers.
⚠️ Attention: At full load (4 people + equipment) to go to the plane may require a motor with a capacity of at least 20-25 hp Weak motors will keep the boat in displacement mode, which will dramatically increase fuel consumption.
But it's not without it. flawsThe main enemy of aluminum boats is electrochemical corrosion. Owners often complain about the appearance of oxides in riveting areas, if you do not monitor the condition of the coating. Also, the cons include noise: rain or hail on the aluminum bottom creates a drum effect, so the presence of a tent or noise insulation becomes a necessity.
Another nuance is weight. When in gear, the boat weighs about 150-160 kg, which makes it heavy for manual loading on the roof of the car. You need a trailer, of course. Some users also note the hardness of the oncoming wave at high speeds, which is typical for flat-wheeled contours.
Corrosion problems and their solution
The most important issue in the owner community is corrosionAluminum itself does not rust like steel, but is susceptible to oxidation and galvanic corrosion, especially when in contact with other metals or vagus currents. In reviews, often there are photos of boats that after 3-5 years of active operation are covered with white plaque or even through holes in the area of the transom and zygomatic seams.
The main cause of the problem is the failure to paint or use incompatible materials in repairs, if the factory was married, or the previous owner “treated” the holes with steel patches, the process of destruction is accelerated significantly, and it is also negatively affected by the storage of the boat in the water without going ashore after each fishing.
For prevention, owners recommend using protectorInstalling zinc treads on the transom and bottom allows you to take the hit of corrosion, keeping the hull intact, and it's a cheap and effective way to extend the life of a boat for decades.
How to install the tread correctly?
To install the tread, you must drill a hole in the transom (if not provided), carefully clean the contact area until shine, apply a special conductive glue (if adhesive is used) or install bolts with mandatory insulation of the bolt from the body.
If you notice the first signs of aluminum "blooming," don't wait for holes to appear. Mechanical brushing and coating with special soils (for example, AMG-snoutIgnoring minor defects will result in heavy patches or heavy patches being made in the season.
- 🛡️ Galvanizing: Regular replacement of zinc plates is the key to the longevity of the body.
- 🎨 Painting: The use of epoxy paints creates a barrier between metal and water.
- 🧼 Hygiene: After fishing in salt water, washing with fresh water is mandatory.
- 🔌 Electric: Proper grounding of the onboard network prevents electrocorrosion.
Tuning and reworking of the boat Ob 3
Buying the basic version is just the beginning. Most owners start immediately. tuningThe most popular first step is to install a windscreen, and the windows are often flimsy or absent, so they're replaced with reinforced versions of Plexiglas or polycarbonate with an aluminum profile.
The second stage of modernization is cockpit comfortHard aluminum cans are replaced with soft seats with tackle storage drawers, often covered with carpet or special anti-slip coatings (EVA mats), which not only improves aesthetics, but also reduces noise and slip.
Many have set control-console It's a navigational space, a sonar, and engine controls, which frees up space in the front of the boat, and allows you to place an anchor box or a sealer, and it's also popular to put a handkerchief on the sides, which increases storage capacity.
☑️ Basic tuning for a beginner
And the rideability is also important. Installing a hydrofoil on the motor or adjusting the angle of the translance (taptail) can significantly change the behavior of the boat on the water, reducing yaw and improving the yield on planing. Some craftsmen even cut additional ones. lease Or polish the bottom to reduce resistance.
Comparison with competitors: Ob 3 or Kazanka?
The eternal question of choice is often reduced to a comparison. Ob 3 It's a classic Kazanka-M or Kazanka-5, both of which have an aluminum body and a similar philosophy, but there are nuances. Ob wins by having boules that give a tremendous advantage in safety and stability. Kazanka is risky to stand up full-length on the go, while Ob forgives many mistakes.
On the other hand, Kazanka is often lighter and cheaper, and if your budget is limited and you plan to fish alone or alone in calm waters, overpaying for a Boolean structure may not make sense. Ob 3 It looks preferable.
Also worth mentioning are PVC competitors. Inflatable boats benefit in transportability (placed in the trunk), but lose in durability and the ability to install a full-fledged windshield and console. Metal is metal - it does not fear driftwood as much as cylinders, and serves for decades with proper care.
| Parameter | Ob 3 | Kazanka-M | PVC (3.6-4.0 m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | Aluminum (AMG5M) | Aluminum (D16T/AMG) | PVC |
| Resilience | High (boulies) | Medium | High (cylinders) |
| Body weight | ~150 kg | ~140 kg | ~60-80 kg |
| Transportation | Just the trailer. | Just the trailer. | Car trunk |
| Term of service | 20+ years | 20+ years | 7-10 years |
Tips for buying a used boat
The market for used boats is vast and find Ob 3 It's very good, but hand-held shopping requires careful attention, first look at the transom and the zygomatic corners, any traces of repair, digestion or sealant should alert you, and it's better to spend time on a detailed inspection than to deal with leaks.
Pay attention to the rivet condition. If the rivet hats are heavily protruding, oxidized or radial cracks are visible around them, the boat is tired. Also check the completeness: having a remote, awning, windshield and anchor device will significantly save your budget when retrofitting.
⚠️ Warning: When buying a used boat, be sure to test drive on the water. Load the boat with 3-4 people and check if there are leaks in the area of the lower unit pipe (if any) and under the floorboards. On land, small leaks may not be noticeable.
The price of the used OB 3 varies depending on the year of production, the condition of the paint and the configuration of the engine. It is often more profitable to buy a boat with an engine, even if the engine requires repair, as this will save on transportation. motor - this is a separate story, and its condition must be checked by its own criteria (compression, spark, condition of lower unit).
When you look at a used boat, bring a powerful flashlight with you. Light at an angle of 10-15 degrees to the metal surface perfectly reveals dents, uneven seams and hidden paint defects that are not visible in normal daylight.
Summary
Ob 3 It's a time-tested workhorse for a Russian waterman, not without the disadvantages of a low-cost rolled metal, but it offers an unmatched combination of price, strength and capacity. If you're willing to put up with the need for a trailer to transport and take time to corrosion treatment, this boat will serve you faithfully for years to come.
The key to success with this model is not to expect ocean-level seaworthiness miracles from it, but to use it for its intended purpose: for fishing, hunting and recreation on rivers, lakes and reservoirs. tuning They turn a simple aluminum box into a comfortable boat for the whole family.
Ob 3 is the ideal choice for those who want a reliable metal boat with good stability and are ready to take care of the aluminum hull on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum speed to be achieved on Ob 3?
With a 30 hp engine and a full load, the speed is about 35-40 km / h. With one driver and a 30 hp engine, you can accelerate to 45-50 km / h. Install a more powerful engine (up to 40-50 hp) is possible, but requires caution due to the risk of transom damage and loss of controllability.
Do I need to register Ob 3 in GIMS?
Yes, the boat is subject to registration, as its length exceeds 3 meters, and the weight of the curbed hull (about 150 kg) in the amount of the engine power (more than 8 hp or 5.88 kW) exceeds the threshold of 200 kg. However, if the engine is less than 8 hp, registration may not be required, but it is better to clarify the current rules in your region.
Can I walk on Ob 3 on Ladoga or Onega?
The boat is not designed for a serious wave. With winds of more than 1 m / s and a wave height of more than 0.25 m, being on such bodies of water can be dangerous due to the risk of flooding and low stability on a large wave, despite the bulges.
How to fix a hole in an aluminum case?
For temporary repairs, you can use epoxy glue with a reinforcement mesh. For quality repairs, you need argon welding aluminum or installing an aluminum patch on rivets using a sealant. You can not put steel patches, you will start to corrosion.