The small boat market in Russia is booming, and among the many offerings are time-tested aluminum boats. Boat OBM to buySo you're interested in reliability, maintainability and affordable cost of ownership, and this model, produced by the Novosibirsk plant, has become a kind of folk classic, known for its simplicity and unpretentiousness.
However, before you go to a dealer or look for an ad in the secondary market, you need to weigh the pros and cons. The modern buyer is spoiled for comfort, and the spartan conditions of the classic Obi can be a surprise. In this article, we will discuss in detail the technical nuances, features of operation and real market value, so that your decision was as balanced as possible.
The Ob aluminum case was created in an era where durability was put above aesthetics, and that's the principle that's at the heart of the design you're planning to buy. Ob M. It's an upgraded version of the legendary Obie, which has improved bottom geometry and enhanced transom, and understanding these differences is critical to making the right choice.
Design features and geometry of the body
The basis of the vessel is a riveted hull of aviation aluminum brand AMG5MThis alloy is highly corrosive and durable, allowing the vessel to withstand impacts on rocks and ice that would be fatal to plastic or fiberglass, with a bottom thickness of 2 mm and the sides 1.5 mm, which ensures the rigidity of the structure without excessive weighting.
The geometry of the hull is a deep V pattern in the bow, which is going into flat-kiled contours closer to the transom. Ob M. It's a 10-degree keeling angle, which is a trade-off between speed and stability on the course.
⚠️ Warning: Aluminum is susceptible to electrochemical corrosion when in contact with other metals in salt water. When operating in marine conditions, be sure to use zinc anode protector.
An important design feature is the presence of a hinge beam around the perimeter, which protects the board when mooring. Unlike cheaper analogues, it uses a full-fledged wooden beam fixed to metal brackets, which makes it easier to replace it in case of damage.
Welding and riveting technology
The secret to the longevity of the Obi M is the combined joint, the seams are argon-arc welded, and the sheets of the skin are additionally fastened with rivets, which prevents the cracks from spreading if the weld gets a microcrack from impact.
Accommodation and internal arrangements
The interior of the boat is designed utilitarianly. There are no frills, but there is everything you need to move safely through the water. Standard equipment includes two hand-helds for storing things that serve as banc seats at the same time. The volume of harunduks allows you to place anchors, life jackets and a supply of fuel.
The deck is equipped with a non-slip surface, but many owners immediately after buying think about additional tuning. The floor is made of corrugated aluminum sheet, which is good for water runoff, but not always comfortable for the legs in hot weather. Trans is reinforced and designed to install a motor up to 30 hp, although the passport recommendation limits the power of 25 hp.
- 🚤 Two jocks for storage of equipment and fuel.
- 🪑 Three removable cans (seats) that can be repositioned.
- ⚓ Ducks for mooring and the oars in the basic configuration.
- 🛡️ Scully keels to improve exchange rate stability.
In recent years, there has been a trend towards savings in fittings, so when accepting a new boat, it is worth carefully examining the quality of the processing of the edges and the tightening of all bolt joints. Factory defects, such as sharp hatch edges, are rare, but require attention.
☑️ Pre-purchase check
Performance specifications in water
How he behaves. Ob M. This is a displacement vessel that, when you install a medium-power engine (15-20 hp), easily goes into planing mode with one person on board. With a full load (4 people plus cargo), you will need a 25 hp engine and the right weighting to enter the plane.
At full speed, the boat shows a good germination on the wave due to its high board (0.75 m) and sharp bow. However, the lack of zygomatic splashers in the basic version leads to the fact that at high speeds the spray can fly into the cockpit, many owners solve this problem by installing additional deflectors.
The steerability of the vessel depends on the position of the engine and the condition of the hydrofoil. When the trim is properly adjusted, the boat goes smoothly, without yaw. The aluminum hull has excellent inertia, which is felt when maneuvering at low speeds.
Comparison with competitors and modifications
There are several modifications in the market and it is easy for the buyer to get confused. Ob M. different from the basic Obi. There was a transom under the hinged motor, whereas the classic Ob often went under the paddles or required alterations. Ob-3It is longer and more comfortable, but much more expensive.
Comparing with competitors such as the Crimea or Kazanka, it is worth noting that the Novosibirsk model wins in seaworthiness thanks to the deeper V, but loses in the width of the cockpit.
| Parameter | Ob M. | Kazanka-M | Krym-M |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length, m | 4.00 | 4.00 | 4.30 |
| Width, m. | 1.40 | 1.60 | 1.55 |
| Load capacity, kg | 400 | 400 | 450 |
| Engine power, hp | 30 | 12 | 30 |
So when you choose between these models, you have to consider where you're going to fish. Ob M. It's better suited for its seaworthiness. The wider Kazanka is more convenient for quiet river fishing in overgrown reeds.
Price policy and the market of used
If you've decided Boat OBM to buy You can expect new ones, you can get ready for the fact that the prices in authorized salons can vary depending on the region and the exchange rate for aluminum. In the secondary market, the situation is more interesting: you can find copies in excellent condition for half the price of new.
When buying a used boat, first look at the bottom condition. Aluminum does not rot, but can get serious dents or cracks. Pay special attention to the corners of the transom and the places where the zygomatic keels are attached, there are most often fatigue cracks.
When buying a used boat, be sure to check the presence of a factory number (HIN) on the transom. its absence will create huge problems when registering with the GIMS.
The cost of owning a boat is minimal, it does not require expensive storage in a warm room, is not afraid of ultraviolet radiation and mechanical damage when transported by trailer, which makes it an ideal choice for those who want to save on maintenance.
⚠️ Warning: When buying a used boat, be sure to check the compliance of the engine and boat number in the technical data sheet.
Tuning and improvements for comfort
Buying an Obi is often just the beginning of the journey, and the basic equipment is spartan, so most owners immediately start upgrading. windshield And the awning, which turns the boat into a full-fledged micro-cruiser, protecting from rain and headwinds.
The second step is to improve ergonomics, where owners change their regular cans to soft seats with backs, install rundoos, install sonars and navigators, and drill the aluminum case, making it easy to attach any equipment.
- 🌊 Installation hydrofoil on the lower unit motor to improve plane output.
- 🔦 Installation of LED lighting in the harunduks and on the nose.
- 🛋️ Replacement of plywood cans with chairs with soft upholstery.
- ⚓ Installation of anchor and leer device.
Safety is also a must, and the installation of side lights, audible signal and an additional anchor is mandatory for night exits or fog swimming, all of which are self-executable and do not require complex tools.
Aluminum boat Ob M is an ideal "designer" for fans of tuning, allowing you to create a vessel to your needs with minimal investment.
Where and how to best buy
There are two main ways: buying from the official dealer of the manufacturing plant or searching on the bulletin boards. Officials give a guarantee (usually 1 year) and a full package of documents, but the price will be higher. Individuals offer a lower price, but the risks of hidden defects fall on the buyer.
When ordering from the factory or dealer, check the delivery time, during the season (April-June) can form a queue, and it is also important to immediately arrange delivery to the pier, as the dimensions of the package (4 meters) require a long trailer or gazelle with a booth.
If you live in a remote area, logistics can be a problem, and it's often more profitable to buy a boat in a nearby major city and bring it on your own or on a trailer than to pay for delivery by a transport company. Always check the reputation of the seller and the availability of reviews.
Do I need to register the boat OB M in GIMS?
Yes, the Ob M is subject to mandatory registration, with a weight (even the lightest) installed almost always exceeding 200 kg and a length of more than 3 meters, and the absence of registration threatens to fine and put the vessel in a parking lot.
Can I paint an aluminum boat?
You can paint it, but only with special epoxy or polyurethane soils and paints for aluminum. The usual paint will quickly peel off. Often owners just polish the aluminum to shine, which looks stylish and inexpensive.
What is the maximum weight of the cargo that can withstand the Ob M?
Passenger capacity is 400 kg, which includes the weight of people, motor, fuel and equipment, and exceeding this limit is dangerous, although the boat will remain afloat, its driving performance and safety will significantly decrease.
Is the body warmed in the sun?
Aluminum is highly thermally conductive, and on a hot sunny day, the sides and decks can get very hot, so it's uncomfortable to walk barefoot on a boat. It's recommended to have shoes with non-slip soles.