The modern market of small craft is full of PVC models that dominate the budget and middle segment, but for many experienced water engines, all-welded models remain the classics. aluminum-boatAmong them, Ob 3, a deep modernization of the Soviet Ob, retains the best features of its predecessor and eliminates most of its design flaws, and if you're looking for a reliable fishing vessel that can be pulled ashore without the risk of puncture, this option deserves close attention.
Unlike inflatable counterparts, the trio offers a completely different level of comfort and safety when driving on the wave, thanks to its impressive dimensions and rigid body. longevity And you're not afraid of the extra hassle of transport and storage, and in this article, we'll go through the technical details, the real performance and the operation of this model in detail, so you can make an informed decision about buying.
Many believe that the time of metal boats is over, but sales statistics and a vibrant community of owners suggest otherwise. Ob 3 It remains one of the most popular vessels in its class, thanks to its combination of affordable prices and time-tested design, and let’s explore what lies behind this popular name and why this boat is still relevant.
Structural features and materials of the body
The basis of the durability of this model is the use of aviation magnesium-amuletiumThe bottom is 4 mm thick and the sides and deck are made of a 2 mm thick sheet, which provides an excellent balance between the rigidity of the structure and the total weight of the vessel. All joints are made by argon-arc welding, which eliminates leakage and guarantees the integrity of the seams even under severe torsional loads.
The hull is characteristic keleaThe nose is raised, which prevents water from being overwhelmed, and the wide transom plate allows motors up to 50 hp to be installed, although the optimal range is 30-40 hp for economical cruising.
⚠️ Note: Despite the high corrosion resistance of the alloy, it is not recommended to leave the boat in the water for a long time without treatment with antifouling compounds, especially in salt water, as this can lead to electrochemical corrosion.
An important element of the design is the presence of timber The cockpit has a perimeter that protects the sides from impacts on the pier or other vessels, and inside the cockpit, there are knobs for storing things that also serve as structural reinforcement and provide additional buoyancy in the event of a rollover.
Dimension, weight and load capacity
One of the key parameters to consider when choosing a boat is the physical dimensions of the vessel. Ob 3 It is a large motorcycle, and its dimensions allow you to comfortably accommodate on board a company of 4-5 people, but these same dimensions dictate certain requirements for storage conditions and methods of transportation on the trailer.
For clarity, compare the main technical specifications with typical representatives of the class, so that you understand what to expect from the operation:
| Parameter | The value of Ob 3 | Middle class. |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum length | 5000 mm | 4500-5200 mm |
| maximum width | 1900 mm | 1800-2000 mm |
| Height of board | 800 mm | 700-900 mm |
| Estate mass | 260 kg | 240-300 kg |
| Load capacity | 750 kg | 600-800 kg |
It is worth noting that the stated loading capacity The 750 kg includes the weight of passengers, cargo, engine and fuel. When fully loaded, the draught of the boat increases, which may require adjusting the position of the transom motor to maintain the optimal angle of the trim. The weight of 260 kg makes it impossible to launch two people without using special slips or winches, so having a trader is almost mandatory.
When calculating your load capacity, always leave a 15-20% margin for unforeseen circumstances, such as a sudden increase in wave or the need to take people on board from another vessel.
Driving and handling
On the water, Ob 3 exhibits the behavior of heavy aluminum boats, with its elongated zygomatic line and high-raised nose. slashIt's a soft ride, even when it's a little bit of a gimmick, and unlike flat-slippers, it doesn't snoop around and it keeps the direction steady, which reduces driver fatigue when it's going long distances.
However, consider the inertia of the massive hull. Maneuvering at low speeds requires addiction, since the boat does not have high turnability. cross-plate Or the use of long leg motors that allow you to optimally adjust the different.
An important aspect is planing. With a 30 hp engine, the boat goes into planing with two passengers on board, but for comfortable operation with a full load, you will need an engine from 40-50 hp. Ob 3 Prone to yaw at full gas if the center of gravity is shifted too far into the nose or stern, so the distribution of the load plays a critical role.
For stable planing with full load, the optimal power of the motor is 40-50 hp, which allows you to reach speeds of up to 45-50 km / h.
Comfort and internal arrangements
The interior of the cockpit is designed to meet the needs of fishermen and tourists. aluminum-leafThe presence of hazelnuts in the bow and under the banks allows you to remove gear, anchor chains and personal belongings, keeping the work area free for movement.
The design provides for the possibility of installation tent It's a metal frame that turns the boat into a full-fledged microboat for sleeping or rain protection, and the soft lining on the cans and the ability to fit rotary seats greatly improve comfort on long transitions or waiting for a cool ride.
For anglers, the ability to install sonars, navigators and rod holders is an important element. The rigid hull allows equipment to be attached directly to the sides or deck without risking damage to the structure, which is often a problem in inflatable boats.
Secrets of modernizing comfort
Many owners independently install additional boxes under seats with gas lifts for storing equipment, and also mount LED lighting cockpit for night fishing, powering it from a separate battery.
Transport and storage
Owning Obue imposes certain logistics obligations. Boat sizes require availability trailer During transport, the vessel must be securely fixed with slings to prevent displacement of the centre of gravity and damage to the trailer during sharp manoeuvres.
Keeping such a boat is best under a canopy or in a garage, as direct sunlight can heat the metal to high temperatures, and constant contact with moist ground is not yellow to the bottom. Wintering outdoors is permissible, but requires mounting the boat on special goats or bars to exclude contact with snow and ice.
☑️ Preparation for winter storage
Comparison with competitors and analogues
There are direct competitors on the market, such as the Crimea, the Salute or more modern models such as the Pella-Fiord. Compared to the Crimea, the Ob 3 wins in height and seaworthiness, but loses in the width of the cockpit. Pella-Fiord It offers a more modern design and better ergonomics, but costs significantly more.
The main advantage of the “three” over competitors is the proven over the years. technological The design is so simple that any welder can repair the damage to the body, which is crucial in remote water conditions.
Compared to similarly sized PVC boats, the metal benefits in plane speed (at equal power) and no downhill restrictions, but PVC benefits in weight and storage capacity in the apartment, which is a defining factor for many.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to register the boat Ob 3 in GIMS?
The boat weighs 260 kg and with an engine (even the lightest) it is guaranteed to exceed 200 kg. According to the law, all boats weighing more than 200 kg are subject to mandatory registration.
What is the maximum wave size of a boat?
The design is designed to operate at a wave of up to 1 meter (3 points), exceeding this wave height is dangerous because of the risk of overflow and loss of controllability, despite the high board.
Is it possible to use a boat in winter?
Metal becomes more fragile at low temperatures, but exploitation is possible, and the main thing is to avoid impacts on the ice and sudden temperature changes that can cause condensation inside closed volumes.
How many people can be transported according to the standards?
Passport capacity is 5 people, however, when fully loaded (750 kg), the buoyancy margin remains minimal, so it is recommended not to exceed the limit of 4 people for safety.