The search for a reliable and inexpensive boat for fishing or cruising on the reservoir often leads outdoor enthusiasts to time-tested classics. Boat Little 2 It is one of the most recognizable symbols of Soviet shipbuilding for the mass consumer, who has survived to this day in the status of a coveted trophy for collectors and practitioners. dural The design was created in an era when durability was put above comfort, and simplicity of design allowed to repair the boat in the field with a minimum set of tools.
Unlike modern PVC counterparts, which require constant drying and are afraid of punctures, or composite models with their high cost, Baby 2 offers a unique balance between weight and strength. duraluminiaIt is capable of withstanding impacts on rocks and reeds, making it an ideal choice for shallow waters and overgrown backwaters, but when buying such a vessel today, it is important to understand its design features, which are significantly different from the usual safety standards and ergonomics.
In this article, we will discuss the specifications, consider the nuances of operation and weigh all the pros and cons of acquiring this legendary model. The thickness of the D16AT duraluminum sheet is only 1 mmIt's important to understand how it affects buoyancy, and whether it's worth putting a modern motor on a boat, and understanding these details will help you make an informed decision about whether to buy or restore this retro vehicle.
History of creation and features of the construction of the body
The project began in the mid-1960s at the Leninskaya Forge, which later became known as the Forge on Rybalsk, in Kiev, with the task of creating a massive rowing boat that would be lighter than traditional wooden apples and stronger than inflatable counterparts of the time. Baby.It was riveted joints, not welds, that became the hallmark of this model, ensuring the necessary tightness and compensating for the temperature expansion of the metal.
The design of the body is based on the use of sheet duraluminiaThe hull is very durable and has a low specific gravity, and the hull and the bottom are the same thickness, which made it easier to produce, but required the assemblers to be highly skilled at riveting. The shape of the hull is a flat-nosed, somewhat raised nose, which is typical of rowing boats designed for calm water, and this geometry allows even two passengers to feel confidently on the water, although modern safety standards recommend not exceeding the estimated load.
The production of corrosion treatment was particularly important, although it was far from modern standards at the time, and anodizing and special primers were applied in the factory, but over time, especially when used improperly, the metal could be subjected to electrochemical corrosion, which is why the condition of the skin should be given priority when buying a used copy. Dural boat It does not rust like steel, but it “flowers” and can be layered if the protective layer is broken.
⚠️ Warning: When inspecting the old boat, Baby 2, be sure to check the riveted seams for leaks. Prolonged standing on the water without pulling on shore could lead to shell fouling and local corrosion at the contact points of the metal with water.
Technical specifications and load capacity
To understand the capabilities of the vessel, you need to refer to dry figures that clearly regulate its use. Boat Little 2 The hull is 3 metres long, which is the optimal size for transport in the back of a passenger car or on a trailer, and a width of 1.3 metres ensures sufficient stability in calm water.
The weight of an empty vessel varies from 20 to 22 kilograms, allowing one or two physically advanced people to lift it ashore without much effort, a significant advantage over heavier metal counterparts such as the Kazanka or Ob. loading capacity The model is limited to 160 kilograms, which includes the weight of passengers, equipment, fuel (if the engine is installed) and the boat itself, if it is a transportation.
Below is a table with basic technical data to help you compare the Little 2 with other models:
| Parameter | Meaning | Unit of measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Full length | 3000 | mm |
| maximum width | 1300 | mm |
| Height on midship | 400 | mm |
| Load capacity | 160 | kilogram |
| Capacity | 2 | man. |
It is important to note that the actual operating load is often lower than the passport due to the need to take into account the buoyancy margin and safety. Dural boat A low-landing can start to draw water when it is overloaded, so for a comfortable fishing trip with fishing rods and cages, it is better to focus on the total weight of passengers not more than 140 kg.
Outboard operation
Although initially Baby 2 It was designed as a rowing boat, and the realities of fishing and the desires of the owners dictated their conditions. outboard motor installation has become common practice, but requires a very careful approach. transom bar, which often welded or glued to the stern by the owners themselves, must withstand not only the weight of the engine, but also the traction force when driving.
The optimum power of the motor for this model should not exceed 2-3 horsepower. A more powerful engine will create excess traction, which the lightweight body simply cannot convert effectively to speed due to the high resistance of flat-bottom water. duraluminium A 1 mm thick motor may not withstand the vibrations of a heavy motor, causing cracks in the transom area, and electric motors are a more gentle option that preserves the integrity of the structure.
When you install the engine, it's critical to correctly calculate the differentiation, the stern should not be too submerged in water, otherwise the boat will become squirmish and dangerous to operate. Often anglers place the battery and fuel tank in the bow for balancing, but this requires a reliable attachment to prevent the shift of the center of gravity during sharp maneuvers.
Can you achieve high speed?
It is almost impossible to accelerate the Little 2 to planing due to the shape of the body and the low power of the permissible motors. The maximum speed rarely exceeds 8-10 km / h, which is a displacement mode. Attempts to install a motor with a capacity of 5 hp and above often end in transom breakdown or loss of control.
Transport and storage
One of the main advantages that it has boat Little 2The dimensions allow the vessel to be placed in the trunk of a station wagon or hatchback, provided the rear seats are folded down, or on the top trunk of a passenger car. Unlike inflatable boats, it does not require pumping and drying before packing, which saves time on the pond.
However, keeping a dural boat has its nuances: leaving it outdoors in the scorching sun is not recommended, as the metal heats up strongly, which can be unpleasant when landing, and also accelerates the degradation of the paint coating. duraluminium not afraid of frost, but it is advisable to keep the boat in an inverted form, so that moisture and snow do not accumulate inside.
When transported on a trailer or trunk, soft pads should be used under the sides to prevent metal from friction against metal arcs or belts. Vibration when driving on public roads can lead to abrasion of the protective layer and the appearance of microcracks. Regular inspection of the contact areas with fasteners will help to avoid through corrosion.
☑️ Preparation for winter storage
Repair and rehabilitation
Repairability is the strength that is famous for boat Little 2Unlike fiberglass analogues, which require sophisticated technologies to fix cracks, or PVC, which requires special glue and patches, dural can be repaired with fairly simple methods. Small holes and cracks are easily fixed using epoxy resin with reinforcement mesh or cold welding.
If the damage is serious, for example, the bottom is pierced against a stone, it may be necessary to install an aluminum patch on the rivets. duraluminiumIt is important to use a polyurethane sealant or special boat compositions when installing the patch to ensure that the seam is completely waterproof. The rivet must be made tightly, without gaps.
Recovery paints also don't require industrial equipment. After cleaning the surface to metal and degreasing, you can apply the soil to aluminum and enamel. Many owners use hammer paints that hide small bumps and provide additional mechanical strength of the layer. Regular renewal of paint extends the life of the boat for decades.
⚠️ Attention: Duraluminium welding requires special equipment (argono-arc welding) and high qualification. Heat treatment destroys the structure of the D16 alloy, making the metal brittle in the seam area, so riveting remains the preferred method of repair.
Comparison with modern analogues and conclusions
In a modern world full of watercraft, boat Little 2 And when we compare it to PVC inflatable boats, we see that Baby is winning in bottom durability and puncture resistance, but losing in packing compactness and weight. You can carry a PVC boat in a backpack, whereas Baby needs a car.
Compared to modern aluminum boats like the Crimea or Vyatka-Pro, Little 2 looks archaic, has a side, less internal volume and lower comfort level. However, its price on the secondary market is often many times lower, and the margin of safety when operated carefully is almost inexhaustible, a pragmatic choice who needs a "workhorse" to travel to the nearest lake.
To extend the life of the switches and oars, lubricate rubbing metal parts with graphite lubricant or litholic before each season, which will prevent the oars from jamming at the time of rowing.
Should you buy Little 2 today? If you're looking for a lightweight, safe boat for a relaxing fishing trip, if you're able to transport it, if you're willing to put up with a lack of modern comfort -- yes, it's a solid piece of metal that, with minimal care, will last more than one generation of anglers. The main thing is to check the condition of the hull before buying.
The Boat 2 is the perfect balance between price, reliability and ease of service for those who appreciate the classic design and do not chase speed records.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the real speed of the boat Little 2 with a 2 hp engine?
With a 2 horsepower engine, the boat develops a speed of about 6-8 km / h. This is a quiet mode, sufficient for rearranging tackles or switching between brows, but not for rapid transitions to the reservoir.
Can I use Little 2 on a fast-flowing river?
Use on high-flowing rivers is not recommended, low sides and low weight make the boat vulnerable to side waves and wind, and is suitable mainly for lakes, ponds and calm sections of rivers.
What is better to paint the scratches on the dural body?
It is best to use specialized aluminium enamel or two-component epoxy paints. Be sure to clean the scratch to metal before painting, degrease and apply acid soil to improve adhesion.
Do I need to register the boat Baby 2 in GIMS?
Under current Russian law, boats weighing up to 200 kg (including engine weight) and with engines up to 8 kW (about 10.8 hp) are not subject to registration. Since the Little 2 weighs about 20 kg, it does not require registration when used with low-power engines.