Choosing the first or new inflatable boat is always a balance between the desire to get the most comfort and the need to meet the budget. Hunter 320 The Russian manufacturer of the same name has been one of the most discussed in the segment of budget rowing and motor boats for many years, its popularity due to the affordable price and the presence of a rigid solder floor, which is a hallmark for a length of 3.2 meters.
But behind the exterior simplicity, there are a number of nuances that a potential owner needs to know, and in this article, we will look at the design, the actual driving performance for an outboard motor and rowing, and what tasks are used for. Hunter 320 It is perfect, and where better to consider more expensive analogues.
Many newcomers mistakenly believe that all boats about 3 meters long are the same. This is not true. Differences in tissue density, cylinder design and floor type dramatically change the behavior of a vessel on the water. The key feature of the Hunter 320 is the presence of a full-fledged inflatable keel in combination with plywood paiola floor, which is rare for such a price category.
Construction and materials of the shell
The basis of reliability of any inflatable boat is the quality of polyvinyl chloride fabric. Hunter 320 five-layer reinforced PVC density of 750 g / sq.m. This is a standard indicator for the budget segment, providing sufficient resistance to puncture and abrasion with careful operation.
The cylinders are divided into three independent compartments, which meets the safety requirements for registration in GIMS (although for boats up to 200 kg and an engine up to 10 hp registration is not required now), partitions are made of high quality, valves are petal type, which are easy to use and reliable.
⚠️ Attention: When pumping a boat, monitor the pressure. In hot weather, the air inside the cylinders expands, and the excess pressure can cause the seams to rupture. Use a pressure gauge and do not exceed the recommended 0.25 atm.
And you have to pay special attention to the seams. They're made by the method. plug-inIt's cheaper to make, but it takes care, and if you're planning on keeping the boat assembled all year round, you might want to look at welded models, because the glue can dry out over time.
Features of the paillon floor
The main advantage of this model is the presence of a hard floor. Unlike inflatable floors (NDF), paiolas of water-resistant plywood coated with film provide excellent stability when cruising and fishing. The floor consists of three sections connected by stringers (aluminum profiles).
It takes time to build the floor, and you'll need to pump the cylinders completely, put in stringers, and then stack the sheets of plywood in sequence, and it takes about 10 to 15 minutes for an experienced user, and up to 30 minutes for a beginner.
- 🔹 Toughness: The floor does not bend under the weight of two people and equipment, creating a flat platform.
- 🔹 Weight: Plywood and aluminum add extra pounds to the boat, which is critical when carrying.
- 🔹 Driving specifications: Thanks to the hard bottom, the boat better goes for planing with a low-power engine.
It is worth noting that plywood, even processed, is afraid of prolonged contact with water. After each fishing, the floor must be wiped dry and dried before packaging, otherwise it may dissect.
To extend the life of the solder floor after fishing, wipe it with dry rags and leave it to dry in the straightened form for at least a couple of hours before packing into a bag.
Driving performance for an outboard motor
The tranza hinge is designed to install motors with a capacity of up to 5 hp (formally up to 10 hp, but practice shows that 5-6 hp is the optimal limit for the body of 320 cm).
On the water. Hunter 320 It's predictable. It's an inflatable keel that keeps the boat on course and doesn't sniff, but because of the narrow stern and the relatively soft cylinders, you can see the bottom slapping on the wave if you're not getting the speed right.
The maximum speed with a motor of 5 hp and one passenger is about 20-22 km / h At full load (two people + tackle), the boat confidently goes in displacement mode at a speed of 8-10 km / h, which is enough to move along a reservoir or river.
The optimal power of the engine for Hunter 320 - 3.5-5 hp Installation of the engine is more powerful than 6 hp does not make sense due to the limitation on the load capacity and the risk of damaging the transom.
Rowing option and maneuverability
The trim often includes paddles and paddles. Rowing on a paiole floor boat is more difficult than on an inflatable floor boat, due to higher landing and sailing. However, having a hard floor allows you to kneel or even gently stand up fully (with caution), which is not possible in classic inflatables.
The maneuverability on the rowing course is medium. The boat has a classic cylinder shape that does not contribute to a rapid turn on the spot. For fishing in overgrown reed bays, rowing can be tedious due to the water's resistance to the wide hull.
However, for quiet walks on a small lake or pond, the rowing option is quite viable: the oars included are usually aluminum, lightweight, but not very durable, and for serious use, it is better to replace them with wooden or composite.
Capacity and passenger capacity
Passenger capacity Hunter 320 This means that the boat can withstand two adult men and a small supply of equipment, but in practice, going to the planing with two passengers on a 5 hp engine will be difficult.
The ideal configuration for this model is one fisherman with a full set of gear or two people in quiet mode, exceeding the load capacity leads to a decrease in the height of the board above the water, which becomes dangerous in wave conditions.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Full length | 320 cm | Including inflatable parts |
| Width | 136 cm | Enough for sustainability |
| Boat weight | ~35 kg | No motor or hinge. |
| Max, engine power. | 5 hp | Recommended |
The secret to increasing the usable area
Many fishermen install additional pocket bags on cylinders, which allows you to unload the floor from trifles and tackles, making moving around the boat more comfortable.
Comparison with competitors and final verdict
There are many analogues on the market: Flagship 320, Master 320, Aqua 320Hunter often wins on price, but may be inferior in fabric density or fittings. Competitors can offer thicker PVC (850-900 g/sq.m.), but for significantly more money.
If your budget is limited and having a hard sex is a prerequisite, then Hunter 320 It's a great first boat for a beginner who wants to know if he needs a boat at all without spending huge sums.
However, if you plan to operate actively, frequent trips to large bodies of water and keep the boat in harsh conditions, it makes sense to add a budget and look towards models with denser PVC and welded seams.
☑️ Check before buying a used boat
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I register Hunter 320 with GIMS?
From 2020, boats weighing more than 200 kg (in running order) or with a motor more powerful than 8 kW (about 10.8 hp) are subject to registration. The Hunter 320 with a 5 hp engine is usually less than 200 kg, so registration and rights are not required. However, the rules may change, always check the current legislation.
Which glue is best for Hunter PVC repair?
Use polyurethane adhesives for repair, such as Texacol (Desmocol) or specialized adhesives for PVC (e.g., Glue 88NP with care, or RadicalIt is important to degrease the surface before gluing and warm up the dryer to activate the glue.
How long does the Hunter 320 last?
With careful operation, storage in a dry place and protection from ultraviolet light (use of a cover or awning), the service life is 5-7 years. The main enemy of PVC is the sun and improper washing with aggressive chemicals.
Will Hunter 320 fit into the trunk of the sedan?
When assembled, the boat is packed into a bag about 110x45x40 cm. Most sedans (C-Class and above) will fit if you fold the rear seats. hatchbacks and station wagons are included without problems.