Choosing a boat for fishing or outdoor activities on the water is always associated with finding a compromise between weight, size and comfort. Frigate 310 Air NDNDM It occupies a unique niche, offering solutions that are rarely found in the three-meter class, and is primarily focused on the bottom design, which radically changes the concept of small craft.
Many aquatic motorists mistakenly believe that the Air Deck is only for large boats or primitive cans, but the engineers at the Frigate plant have managed to integrate this technology into a compact hull while maintaining a stiffness comparable to that of the soldered counterparts, allowing for glides with relative small engines.
In this article, we will discuss in detail why. high-pressure This is a key advantage of this model, and you'll learn about the nuances of the build, the different weather conditions, the real performance, and if you're faced with a choice between classic plywood and modern aerodecular, this material will help you make a smart decision.
Design features and materials
The basis of durability of any inflatable boat is the material from which it is made. Frigate 310 Air It uses five-layer high-density reinforced PVC, and it's not just mechanically loaded, it's also very resistant to ultraviolet radiation and temperature changes. Reinforcing layer The boat will not stretch over time and will retain its geometry even after many seasons of active operation.
The system deserves special attention. Double Stitch & Glue Unlike many competitors who rely only on heat welding or single seam, this is a combination of technology, first glued and then threaded, eliminating the risk of depressurization even under extreme tear loads.
The cylinders are complex, which provides additional rigidity on the water, and the diameter of the cylinders is 42 cm creates a high side, which effectively protects against splashes, but does not make the boat roll. timber along the entire perimeter, which greatly simplifies mooring and protects the sides from impacts on the pier or stones.
⚠️ Warning: Despite the high density of the material, avoid contact with open fire, sparks from a fire or red-hot objects. burn repair is possible, but it is easier to prevent damage by using a protective mat in the cockpit area.
For ease of movement inside the cockpit and protection of the bottom from punctures is provided shield-belt This is especially true when pulling a boat onto a gently sloping shore with pebbles or shells, and the transom design is also enhanced to allow motors up to 9.9 hp to be installed without the risk of deformation.
Technical nuances of seams
Manufacturers often hide the type of thread, but Frigates use a high-strength capron thread that does not rot or stretch under load, unlike cheap counterparts.
The secret of the bottom of Air Deck: advantages and disadvantages
The main "chip" of the model 310 Air BNDT The name is in the acronym NDND, which in this context means "low pressure inflatable floor" (although it is more correct to call it the bottom of high pressure, since the pumping is done up to 0.8-1.0 atmospheres, unlike the classic NDND). floor (Air Deck), which is pumped to high pressure and becomes hard as plywood.
The main advantage of this design is that you don't have to pick up and disassemble heavy sleighs, you don't have to carry around a bag of aluminum or plywood profiles that take up half the boot, you just straighten the boat, pump the cylinders, and then pump the bottom, and it takes no more than 15-20 minutes, even with a hand pump.
The performance of water with this bottom is exceeding expectations, the flat and hard base creates a hydrodynamic ski effect, which promotes early planing, while the bottom has a cushioning effect, softening the shocks against the wave, which hard floorboard can not give.
- 🚀 Assembly speed: The process of preparation for launching is reduced by 2-3 times compared to the unit boats.
- 🎒 Transportability: The absence of heavy floor elements allows you to pack the boat in a compact bag weighing about 35 kg.
- 🌊 Comfort: The inflatable floor is warmer and softer, you can sit on it without additional litter even in cool weather.
But there are some nuances to be aware of: Inflatable bottoms require careful handling of sharp objects inside the cockpit. Although the material is durable, the risk of piercing it with a heel or knife is higher than with plywood. In addition, if the air temperature changes dramatically (for example, you left a cold garage for hot sun), the pressure in the bottom can change and correction will be required.
Use a pressure gauge when pumping the Air Deck bottom. The sun-pumped bottom can deform the seams, and the underpumped will lose stiffness. The optimal pressure is 0.8-1.0 atm.
Package and ergonomics of the cockpit
The interior of the boat Frigate 310 Air The wide cockpit allows two adults to comfortably accommodate themselves with gear space, and the distance between the cylinders (the width of the cockpit) is about 150 cm, which is an excellent indicator for a boat 310 cm long.
The trayboard is made of moisture-resistant plywood and is covered with non-slip material, which is important because a wet trawler can cause the engine or the operator to fall. The motor fastening is standard, suitable for most electric and gasoline models with short days. fish-leafThis allows you to mount the gear directly on the boat.
The storage of things has special pockets on cylinders and the possibility of installing additional equipment, the design makes it easy to fix the sonar, rod holders or navigator. D-ring around the perimeter makes it possible to secure the anchor, lifeline or additional bags.
The ergonomics of the seats are also thought out, and although the basic version may have simple inflatable seat banks, the design of the boat allows for full-fledged rotary chairs on the racks, which makes the fishing boat a comfortable boat for hours of trolling or rest.
Driving and handling
On the water. Frigate 310 Air NDNDM It's predictable and stable, and because of its V-shaped bow contours, it's a great way to cut a wave and not burrow with its nose even when it's full, and it's critical for safety in large water, where the lateral wave from passing boats can be significant.
High-speed steerability is provided by advanced zygomatic stringers, which act as stabilizers to keep the course and prevent yaw, and the boat is not prone to severe nose differentiation when entering the glise, which is typical of many flat-bottomed boats, and for optimal operation, it is recommended to raise the engine one step higher than on classic flat-bottomed boats.
The displacement mode is also comfortable. The boat is not rolling, which allows you to confidently fish with spinning or catching in plumb. The roll on turns is moderate and easily counteracted by the movement of body weight. The maximum speed with a motor of 9.9 hp and one person can reach 25-28 km / h, which is enough to move between fishing points.
| Parameter | Meaning | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Full length | 310 cm | Optimal for 2 people |
| Full width | 156 cm | Roomy cockpit |
| Load capacity | 450 kg | With a spare for the motor and the people. |
| Boat weight | 36 kg | Without the attachment. |
| Passenger capacity | 2 people. | Comfortable for two. |
It is worth noting that when you install a powerful engine at the limit (9.9 hp) with two passengers, the boat still requires careful control on corners. Kieliness
Instructions for assembly and preparation for exit
Assembly process Frigate 310 Air It's intuitive, but it has its own inflatable floor features, and it's going to extend the life of the product and ensure safety, and the first step is to lay the boat out on a flat surface, clear of thorns and sharp objects.
The order of pumping matters: first, the cylinders are fully pumped, then the keel (if it is separate), and only lastly, the bottom of the Air Deck. This is because when the bottom is pumped, it can change the geometry slightly, and if the cylinders are soft, they can be driven.
☑️ Checklist assembly
For pumping, it is better to use a two-way foot pump with a pressure gauge. Compressors are possible, but it requires extreme caution not to overheat the material and not exceed the pressure. After pumping, be sure to check all valves for leakage with soapy water.
When assembled in the cold season (below +5°C), the PVC material becomes rigid, and in such conditions it is recommended to let the boat "sit" warm before assembly or carefully warm the folding areas with a hair dryer (not a construction, but a normal home at minimum power) to avoid microcracks on the folds.
⚠️ Warning: Never leave a fully pumped boat in direct sunlight unattended for long periods of time, with pressure rising in proportion to temperature, which can cause seams to rupture or shape deformation.
Maintenance, storage and repair
Durability of the boat The frigate 310 Air HPD depends on how you store it. After every fishing trip, especially in salt water or in contaminated water, the boat needs to be rinsed with fresh water. Salt and silt, when dried, can act as an abrasive to PVC material.
Drying is a must before packaging. Even the minimum amount of moisture inside the bag can lead to mold and a bad smell that is difficult to remove. Drying the boat is better in the shade, in a straightened form, so that air circulates from all sides. Pay special attention to the valves and folds of the bottom.
In the case of a puncture, the repair kit that comes with it will repair the damage in the field, which requires degreasing the puncture site, applying the glue (usually polyurethane) and pressing the patch, but professional glue and warming up are better for repairing large damages.
- 🧼 Cleanup: Use a soft sponge and special PVC products, avoid aggressive chemicals and solvents.
- 🌡️ Temperature: Keep the boat at temperatures between -20 and +40 degrees Celsius.
- 🛡️ Defense: For long parking on the water, use a protective cover or awning to protect the cylinders from burning out.
Check the joints and valves regularly, and if you notice that the boat is poisoning the air faster than usual, make a soap solution diagnosis, and detecting the slightest defect in a timely manner will save you from trouble on the water.
Proper drying and storage in a case at moderate temperature is a guarantee that the boat will last 10 years or more without loss of leakage.
Comparison with competitors and final conclusions
In the inflatable boat market Frigate 310 Air It competes with models from Badger, Southerners and hunterThe main advantage of the Frigate in this bundle is the Air Deck technology combined with a quality cut, many competitors in this size offer either a heavy plyol bottom or a simple low-pressure inflatable (LDP) that is slapped underfoot.
This model is often priced higher than the simple cans, but the difference in comfort and build speed is huge. You pay for the technology and time saved in assembly. For those who value mobility and don't want to carry heavy things, this is perhaps the best choice in the 3.1-meter class.
In conclusion, it may be said that Frigate 310 Air NDNDM It's a modern, technological product that covers 90 percent of amateur and tourist anglers, and it combines reliability, comfort and ease of use. If you're looking for a boat that doesn't have a burdensome to transport, it's definitely worth considering.
Can I use the Fregat 310 Air for fishing?
Yes, PVC material is resistant to salt water, but after use in the sea, you need to thoroughly wash the boat with fresh water so that the salt does not corrode the seams and valves, and it is worth considering that open sea waves can be dangerous for a boat of this size.
Which motor is best for this model?
The optimal choice will be a two-stroke engine with a power of 5-6 hp (for example, Tohatsu or Yamaha) or a four-stroke 5 hp They will provide a confident plane with one fisherman and a good range. For two people, it is better to consider the engines 8-9.9 hp.
Should I buy a separate pump for the bottom of the Air Deck?
A conventional foot pump that comes with a set is enough, but if you have a car compressor that can adjust pressure accurately and has a stop-to-pressure mode, it will make it much easier to pump hard bottoms.
How long does a PVC boat last?
When properly operated, stored in a warm room in winter and without mechanical damage, the life of a quality PVC boat is 10-15 years.