Posts: 3480
Location: Elk River, Minnesota | Hiya,
I downloaded the 2002 catalog to try and make comparisons of the two boats in question. In my humble opinion, if the boats are priced the same, you are getting a little more boat with less fit and finish in the alaskan than you are with the rebel. The alaskan does not have a raised floor, but it is a tad wider and can take more HP. The only draw back I see in this boat are the two storage compartments on each side of the boat toward the bow. I think that could work as a great place to sit while working with a fish, but some might think it would be in the way if you have to walk a fish around the boat.
The rebel 16 has a little nicer finish with carpeted floors and a slightly raised bow area. The storage area up front is in that bow area on the floor. The Rebel is a little narrower overall, but I feel has a more open layout which is uniform on both sides of the boat, and a front end that does not have above floor storage.
In terms of durability, I don't think you could go wrong with either boat. Lund builds an extremely strong boat and the chances of either boat leaking are very very slim. The only way that a leak could develop if if a rivet pops, but those are usually very few and far between. Neither boat is going to have any trouble being pulled up on gravel shorelines, bumping a rock here and there, etc.
The Alaskan is a touch heavier, and has a 1/2" advantage in bow depth which can be a little better for ride quality and will blow around a little less which is nice.
The Rebel may be a touch quieter since it has carpeted floors, and will be a touch easier to handle by yourself being it is a bit smaller and lighter.
If you are looking for something that can take a smaller motor (if I recall..25 to 40?), then I would say the rebel would be your better bet. Lighter load overall will mean easier work on the motor when propped correctly, and a 40 hp motor will push that boat along just fine.
Now...with both boats being just under 35" in bow depth, I would say a 54" shaft would be plenty. If you start getting into waves that pull the TM prop out of the water, I would say conditions are getting close to being beyond what the operator can keep under good control and in position for casting while keeping your balance. I would guesstimate for that to occur, you would be in roughly 2 foot waves (wave valley to wave crest).
Hope this help some...
Steve |
