Choosing a swimming aid for fishing or outdoor activities on the water is always a balance between reliability, dimensions in transportation form and price. In the segment of inflatable boats made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), models with a length of about 3.2 meters are especially popular, since they allow you to comfortably accommodate two adults and have enough capacity to install the engine.
One of the most discussed models in the Russian market is Leader 320This vessel has proven to be an affordable and functional solution for water lovers, and in this article we will discuss in detail the design features, real-world features and nuances of the operation of this model, so that you can make an informed decision about the purchase.
Unlike many competitors, this model has a number of specific features that can be decisive for some users and critical for others, and understanding these nuances before buying will save you from disappointment and allow you to properly prepare the boat for the first season.
Structural features and materials of the body
The basis of durability of any boat is the quality of the material. The boat Leader 320 is made of reinforced PVC It's a high density, and it's usually a five-layer fabric that provides great resistance to abrasion and puncture, and this is especially true when you're pulling a boat out onto sandy or rocky shores.
The design of the bottom in this model is most often performed by technology Flat (flat bottom) or inflatable floorboard, depending on the specific modification of the year of manufacture. Flat bottom provides excellent stability and low draught, which is ideal for shallow water.
⚠️ Warning: When choosing a modification with an inflatable floor, be sure to check the equipment. In the basic versions, stringers (hard inserts) may be absent, which give the bottom the necessary rigidity and aerodynamics.
Seams connecting cylinders are made by method slush The second option is considered more reliable, because it eliminates the layering of the material under the influence of temperature changes, the quality of the seams is the first thing to pay attention to when visually inspecting a new boat.
Dimension, weight and load capacity
The 320 model has a cockpit length (useful length) of about 2.3–2.4 meters, which is standard for two-seater boats of this class. The total length with inflatable tubes is the declared 3.2 meters. The width of the cockpit usually varies between 1.36–1.4 meters, which provides sufficient space for the fisherman and tackle.
The weight of the kit depends on the type of floor. Models with removable plywood or aluminum floorboard will be heavier than counterparts with an inflatable floor. On average, the weight of the boat assembled is from 35 to 42 kg without considering the engine, which allows you to transport the boat in the trunk of a passenger car, although it will require skill to carry it alone.
The load capacity of the Leader 320 is declared by the manufacturer in the range 400–450 kgThis weight includes the mass of passengers, the vessel itself, the engine and equipment. In practice, a safe load for comfortable fishing is considered 250-300 kg, which corresponds to two adults of average build and a small stock of things.
For an accurate loading calculation, always subtract the weight of the boat and the engine from the stated maximum.
Capacity and comfort of accommodation
Comfort on the water is a subjective concept, but there are objective parameters that affect it. Leader 320 is positioned as a two-seater boat. However, if you plan long walks with an overnight stay or a lot of equipment, consider only hosting one person for maximum comfort.
An important element of comfort is the presence of chunk-box Some versions of the 320 Leader offer splash protection and small things to store in the nose, and comfortable liner handles and paddle grippers also make life easier.
Fishing is critical to comfortable seats. Standard cans (seats) are often simple plywood boards covered with dermatine. Experienced boaters recommend that you immediately pay attention to the possibility of installing more ergonomic seats with adjustment or backrest.
The interior of the cockpit allows two standard fishing boxes to be placed on the sides, leaving a passage in the middle, making the boat convenient for spinning riders who need mobility and the ability to move around the vessel while catching the trophy.
Motor compartment and compatibility with motors
Tran boat Leader 320 is made of moisture-resistant plywood reinforced with aluminum profile. the thickness of the transom is usually 25-30 mm, which allows you to install engines with a capacity of up to 5-8 hp The attachment of the transom to the cylinders is carried out by means of timbers and slings, which is a proven and reliable scheme.
The optimum power of the motor for this boat is considered to be the range. 3.5-5 hp Two-stroke engines of this power easily lead a boat with one person to planing. Installation of an 8 hp engine is possible, but it will be redundant for quiet fishing and increase fuel consumption.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Max, engine power. | up to 8 hp | Up to 5 hp is recommended. |
| Transcent height | 380-400 mm | Standard for short legs |
| Type of attachment | Pushing slats | Adjustment of the angle of different |
| Motor weight (max) | 25 kg | Without prejudice to stability |
⚠️ Note: Do not use long leg (L) motors on this boat without a special supercharge, as this may disrupt the centering and handling of the vessel.
☑️ Check before installing the engine
Assembly, dismantling and transportation
The process of preparing Leader 320 for the water takes an average of 15-20 minutes with experience, the first thing you need to do is spread the boat and pump the cylinders. 0.2-0.25 atm Pumping cylinders in hot weather is unacceptable, because when heated in the sun, the pressure inside can grow to critical values.
If your model is equipped with a rigid floorboard, the assembly requires sequential laying of floor sheets and fixing them in the slots of the beams, this stage requires physical strength and accuracy, so as not to damage the PVC fabric with sharp edges of the elements.
The size of the bag allows you to place it in the trunk of a sedan or hatchback, but in the winter the material can become rigid, so it is recommended to keep the bag warm or let it warm before unpacking.
How to turn the boat down properly?
Blow the cylinders gradually, starting from the bow, to squeeze air into the valves. Don't fold the boat down the same fold lines every time, which will prolong the life of the material. Change the fold lines from time to time.
Care, storage and repair
The durability of the 320 Leader is directly dependent on storage conditions. After each trip, especially on salt water or in muddy (silty) waters, the boat must be washed with fresh water and thoroughly dried. Wet cloth in the coiled state is the ideal environment for mold development, which destroys polymer bonds.
Keep the boat in a straightened or half-blown state at a temperature of -20 to +40 degrees Celsius, although room temperature is considered optimal. Direct sunlight with prolonged exposure (months) can lead to color burnout and reduced elasticity of the upper layer of PVC.
In the case of a puncture or cut, you can repair yourself with a remix that comes with the kit. For reliable repairs, you need to degrease the surface, apply glue (usually polyurethane) on both surfaces, dry and press the load tightly. The quality of repair depends on the preparation of the surface.
Proper drying and storage away from direct sunlight is the main secret of a long service of a PVC boat, more important even than careful operation.
Comparison with competitors and final conclusions
There are many other models on the market, like Flagman, Brig or Hunter, and the 320 leader stands out for its affordability and simplicity of design, and it loses to more expensive models in seat ergonomics and additional pockets, but it gains in maintainability and cost of ownership.
This vessel will be a great choice for fishermen-dwellers, hunters and those who are looking for their first motor boat without unnecessary frills. The reliability of materials has been proven over the years, and the simplicity of construction allows you to eliminate most of the malfunctions in the field.
If you are looking for a balance between price and functionality for a relaxing holiday on the water, Leader 320 However, for extreme conditions, large waves or professional use, it is worth considering models with more complex bottom geometry and enhanced protection.
What is the best glue for repairing the 320 Leader?
For repairing PVC boats, two-component polyurethane adhesives (such as Kleyberg, Texacol or specialized adhesives from boat manufacturers) are best used, providing an elastic and water-resistant seam that can withstand deformation of the material.
Can I use the 320 Leader in the winter?
You can use the boat in winter, but with caution. PVC material loses elasticity in the cold and becomes brittle. Any sudden movement or impact can lead to cracks. If use is necessary, keep the boat warm until the very descent and avoid contact with ice.
How long does the glue dry during repair?
The drying time of the adhesive depends on the ambient temperature and humidity. Usually, the primary polymerization takes 20 to 40 minutes, but the full strength of the seams gains after 12 to 24 hours. Do not load the gluing site prematurely.