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Muskie Fishing -> Muskie Boats and Motors -> Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs
 
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Message Subject: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs
jtemp60
Posted 12/3/2018 6:01 PM (#924914)
Subject: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 66


I am starting to look into getting a new boat. I was looking at the rangers 619 or 620 vs/fs. I was wondering if someone could help me out with the changes in the different years. The pro/ cons of them. Thanks justin
Muskies247
Posted 12/3/2018 6:25 PM (#924916 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: RE: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs





Posts: 70


I am not familiar with the models you are looking at, however I did own a Ranger boat for a long time. Probably the nicest boat out there, and I would highly recommend the Evinrude E tec. I currently run Evinrude E tec and it is fast, does not smoke, smooth, quiet, and without a doubt the fastest outboard available. Not to mention it has the best and longest warranty.
vegas492
Posted 12/4/2018 9:18 AM (#924937 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 1023


I have a 619 VS. Got it because it fit my garage. Gets in by 6 inches, straight, no need to angle anything. The VS hull is amazing. Here's the thing with those boats...measure everything, not just length, but heights. The FS hull is taller than the VS hull. I was in one when I was deciding and I did not like the FS hull. That and...due to that extra height, I doubt it would fit the garage door.

My 619 has bubbles, not a windshield. The windshield is about 2.5 inches taller than the bubbles. My bubbles fit the garage door height by about an inch. It is very close.
On the water...I'm on the Bay of Green Bay quite a bit. If it is too rough for the 619, it's also too rough for a 620.

I don't think you can go wrong with either boat, but look at VS and FS hulls, measuring everything and then see what fits your space.
If I had the space, I'd have a windshield and/or a 620. I'd stay with a VS hull.

I did a lot of research on the 619. Steve Heiting (Musky Hunter) runs them and has some videos out there talking about their specs. You may want to try there. I emailed him and he was very helpful. I did do the rod locker "trick" by which you cut out the end of the tubes and now I can fit 3 8.5 foot rods in the rod locker.

Trolling motor wise..he said to get a 36 volt system. He had a 24 volt system on one and it would run out after a long day. I have the 36 and have had no issues. Plus the batteries are in the floor and really help the drift speed of the boat.

Do yourself a favor and get the rear casting deck, or make one yourself. The horseshoe design in the back of the boat is okay to stand on...but the deck is a lot nicer. And if you troll? You can take that deck out and have the open space you want.

Really, you can't go wrong with a 619 or a 620. 620's, I think, are easier to find used. Not a lot of 619s out there. I'm thinking it is because they fit garage space better. But...do yourself a favor and make sure you get a 36 volt trolling motor system for either boat.

Edited by vegas492 12/4/2018 9:44 AM
BNelson
Posted 12/4/2018 9:37 AM (#924938 - in reply to #924937)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs





Location: Contrarian Island
what is your budget? that usually determines what year you can go for... all things being equal if you can fit a 620 in your garage go 620 over 619. FS sit 4-5" higher in the water, a 2014 620 VS would be a good one to snap up.. heard the fit and finish on the FS models has slipped since BPS took over...
4amuskie
Posted 12/5/2018 7:25 AM (#925018 - in reply to #924938)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




BNelson - 12/4/2018 9:37 AM

what is your budget? that usually determines what year you can go for... all things being equal if you can fit a 620 in your garage go 620 over 619. FS sit 4-5" higher in the water, a 2014 620 VS would be a good one to snap up.. heard the fit and finish on the FS models has slipped since BPS took over...


Both boats are great but size does matter so I say 620 if you can make it work. Funny how this BPS bull gets around. Going from a 14 VS to a current 18 FS, I can tell you first hand that the quality has gone up by a large margin. I can also tell you that the FS will out run the VS everyday and the handling is superb. Awesome rig.
BNelson
Posted 12/5/2018 7:40 AM (#925023 - in reply to #925018)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs





Location: Contrarian Island
I'm in various ranger groups online and there are lots of FS owners that have not been happy... not sure I'd call it "bull"... maybe you got a good one but the pretty evident theme by many is that the fit and finish is not what it was. interesting you say the FS hull is faster, from what others have said, (including Heiting) they are slower with equal HP / Prop etc on the back as a vs.

Edited by BNelson 12/5/2018 7:41 AM
vegas492
Posted 12/5/2018 8:47 AM (#925029 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 1023


Speed and handling. If you want a fast, agile boat, get a 20 foot bass boat with a 250 on it. It'll scream 60 mph plus and turn on a dime.

If you are getting into the 619 or 620, you are doing it to fish bigger water with bigger waves, or to troll, or to get comfort out of a multi-species boat. You don't get into a 619 or 620 for speed.

My 619 VS will do 54-55 mph all day long with a 225 Optimax on the back of it. And I would bet that 85% of the time, the boat does 25-35 mph. There aren't many times that I can run it wide open for too long.

When I did, Vermillion, I watched that thing drink the gas. I could literally watch the needle go down. If I ran it 2/3 power, the fuel economy was significantly better.
And in the Bay? Well, due to wind/waves, most of the time the boat noses up and cuts the waves, or is barely on plane.




Edited by vegas492 12/5/2018 8:51 AM
Steve Heiting
Posted 12/5/2018 10:07 AM (#925037 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 8


I'll jump in here because there's some discussion of what I have or have not said about Ranger's 619FS.

First, I've been running the 619 since before Minn Kota offered 36-volt trolling motors, so yes, I had a few 619s that had 24-volt trolling motor systems. For years, 60-pound thrust was the maximum TM size offered by MK, but I cannot recall one ever running out of juice by the end of the day — MK's Maximizer system really is that good. That said, the risk isn't worth it. I'd hate for it to happen because of the importance of last light fishing. Go with a 36-volt system and don't look back.

Regarding speed, every Ranger is slightly different and they were that way before Johnny Morris bought the brand. I've had one or two 619s that topped out at 60 mph, but somewhere in the mid to high 50s is about the best you can expect from one. I think the FS models generally are a little slower than the VS models, but you'd expect that since each FS model is longer, wider and heavier than the comparable VS models, with no increase in the horsepower rating. However, I have had FS models that were faster than a couple of the VS boats I've owned. My 2018 619FS with a 225 hp Verado, with its buyer and his best friend (both of whom are bigger guys than me), and about three-fourths of a tank of gas, hit 55 mph according to my GPS. With just me in it, it topped out at 58.4 mph.

For my review of the 619FS, visit http://www.steveheiting.com/new-product-reviews/
Jerry Newman
Posted 12/12/2018 3:41 PM (#925689 - in reply to #925037)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Location: 31
Although I agree with the “size matters” and the handling of the FS is superior to earlier VS, it's also longer/wider/deeper as Steve mentioned. There are also some very nice interior upgrade features with the FS, so it's hard not to be impressed with it over all from those perspectives. However, I'm afraid I have to disagree that the quality has gone up by a large margin. I don't want to turn this into a gripe session because the FS is a great boat, but it honestly feels more like it was just kind of slapped together while the VS had more of a hand built top-of-the-line feel. Most of my friends agree that the fit/finish and tolerances were simply tighter with the VS.

I thought there was simply better rigging detail and quality on the VS versus the FS myself… you learn a lot when you take them both apart. For instance, when I removed panels on the FS for rigging I found loose wires, stripped and odd size screws, some of which were simply screwed into air because the holes were not properly aligned. The edge of the plastic on the 3 port side rod holders damaged several rods this past spring, it was a pain filing down the sharp plastic edge to prevent damaging more rods and although I can't say 100%, I'm guessing that contributed to several broken rods.

I also had to fix the plastic dash gauge surround that had every screw stripped and was loose because the hollow plastic shell is simply too thin. The plastic cockpit area doesn't look that bad now, but the painted plastic will sun fade and will eventually get beat up versus the very solid fiberglass design of the VS. The little cubbyhole in the dash is handy, but the interior of the plastic edge feels sharp and cheap to the touch. Although I realize this is getting a little picky, it still feels chintzy for something designed to be used everyday on a top-of-the-line boat... and how about that almost non-functioning glove box design? With that said; having rigged both the VS and FS models, the FS is much easier to rig (pull wires etc.), just be prepared for some disappointment behind the panels.

It sounds like you are leaning towards a used boat and if the budget allows I still recommend the FS over the VS for better overall performance. Even though the newer FS will cost more initially, I think it also represents a more solid long-term investment value because not only will it hold its value, a newer model will qualify for easier financing for the next buyer when you sell in the future.

Considering Steve has also spent time in a 620… perhaps he can comment on the pros and cons of why he leans toward the 619 over the 620? Buying a boat is a big investment and I hope this information helps.


Edited by Jerry Newman 12/12/2018 4:05 PM
Pedro
Posted 12/12/2018 9:23 PM (#925754 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs





Posts: 670


Location: Otsego, MN
Looked at a used VS the other day at the dealer. The FS models were sitting beside it. I personally feel like the FS has been skimped on the “building legends one at a time”. Buddy has had Rangers 619, 620, 621 vs. Never a complaint and never an issue. So many problems with his FS. The post above talked about look behind the panels. Yes indeed. Stuff falling apart inside, stuff lose, not rigged right, cheap panels, heck even his trailer busted.
Is it a nice boat yes. It’s awesome, but I think the care put into building them now has gone down. I mentioned it to the salesman and he said “tell me about it! I have to sell these Ranger/Nitros, they are not once what they were and I’ve sold them for years.”
Would I buy one yes. I have always owned Rangers and love them. Just disappointed in some of the changes I personally think have taken place.
Fisher
Posted 12/13/2018 7:11 AM (#925778 - in reply to #925754)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs





Posts: 425


Location: Roseau
This thread is funny, I own a Bayliner!
Schultz345
Posted 12/13/2018 2:23 PM (#925809 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 221


I've also heard the newer Rangers aren't built like they used to be, which is a really unfortunate development. I'll see how many more years I can squeeze out of my 2002 619.
4amuskie
Posted 12/13/2018 4:52 PM (#925831 - in reply to #925809)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Schultz345 - 12/13/2018 2:23 PM

I've also heard the newer Rangers aren't built like they used to be, which is a really unfortunate development. I'll see how many more years I can squeeze out of my 2002 619.

Lol........ok
sworrall
Posted 12/14/2018 9:36 AM (#925864 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs





Posts: 32761


Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin
'I have heard' doesn't cut it here. Those with a new Ranger who have personal experience either way, sure.
undersized
Posted 12/14/2018 12:16 PM (#925869 - in reply to #925864)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 93


The overall design is nicer in the FS, and the hull is improved for sure, but the quality of those interior details was better in the VS. It's pretty disappointing considering the price increases on those boats have gone up more than just the amount of inflation. Should be better for my extra dollars, not worse.
jtemp60
Posted 1/3/2019 3:16 PM (#927257 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: RE: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 66


Thanks for all the help!!!
Justin
T.Carlson
Posted 1/5/2019 4:01 PM (#927442 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 155


I owned a 2008 620 VS and now a 2017 619 FS

I like my 619 better. I used to "scoop" waves every once in a while on big water(leech lake), I have yet to do so with my 619. My 619 is even a smoother ride. The hull design is better in my opinion. I do get a little more side to side movement in the 619 because the new hull sits a bit higher in the water.

I read someone mention fit and finish, my 619 does have a few little things that bug me, that my 620 did not.
I have had to re-tighten a lot of screws in my 619, my rod locker lide came off, and my glove box hinge broke...
I also broke the drain plug lever thing, twice...I really hate that thing.

But, overall I prefer my 619 FS, because of the awesome ride in the water. Its just so smooth, and fast.

Abu7000
Posted 1/5/2019 6:18 PM (#927453 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 214


I had several/many fit and finish issues with my 2006 Ranger 620, but Ranger took care to correct all of them. My 2015 has had only issues with the switches and Ranger sent me new switches. However, the newer FS model feels cheap as compared to the VS. It is a nice boat, but it does not have the quality feel of the VS. Great hull design: that would be better for trolling and casting, but significantly poorer for netting a fish. It rides higher in the water and needs a 36 volt trolling motor. It is still a great boat, but if I was looking for a used boat it would be a 2005 – 2006 Ranger 620 VS….just my thoughts
Jerry Newman
Posted 1/5/2019 10:27 PM (#927474 - in reply to #927453)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Location: 31
Regarding the scooping water deal... taking water over the front was one of the bigger complaints on the older 621s, and Ranger completely addressed that problem with the FS hull design.

I normally fish large rough water and my 2008 621VS would literally take waves over the bow on almost every trip… some trips much more than others. This past year fishing the same water with the 621FS we didn't take any waves over the bow, if we did it was more of just a heavy splash and not a wall of water where you had to pick your feet up like would sometimes happen in the 08.

To get something you have to give up something else, you can really see the difference when I had them side-by-side.



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(621s.jpg)



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Wimuskyfisherman
Posted 1/14/2019 12:51 PM (#928334 - in reply to #927474)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 229


Jerry Thanks for posting a pic of your new boat. Now I know what to follow around
sjb42
Posted 1/27/2019 5:59 PM (#929422 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: RE: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 84


Check your garage size and see if the boat you will fit. Most garages are all the same size. Thank god for swing tongue trailers, measure from swing tongue to farthest back on the outboard cavition plate and does it have a jack plate? I had to do this for my 620 to make sure it would fit in my garage. I have to angle it in my 2 stall side of my garage but it fits barely. Good luck with your new boat.
jattsingh
Posted 1/29/2019 1:45 AM (#929520 - in reply to #924914)
Subject: Re: Ranger 619 or 620 vs/fs




Posts: 1


I am planning to buy new boat but i was little confused . now with your post i have got enough information to get going and also thank you jerry for posting the pic of the new boats . it really helped . all in all this is really informative post . thank you
http://www.trollingmotorbatteryguides/best-trolling-motor-battery/
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