I am looking to buy either or. I have a line on a 35 staggered 525 no ITS Can anyone tell me pros and cons from experience in owning either or and the differences between the two other than three feet. and more weight? It seems the cockpit is small in the 35 is the 38 the same size? what are the weight differences? Anything else that could be added would be helpful. Is anyone selling or know of potential sale? I have my 2004 29 for sale on boat trader and powerboats listings would like to sell but not desperate. Thanks

Owned an 07 38 Lightning full stagger for 7 years and have been on a few 35 full stagger. The difference is more than just 3 feet longer. The 38 is more like the 42 than its like the 35. Meaning if you set all three next to each other the 38 would be a closer sibling in size, handling and character to the 42, hope that makes sense. The 38 gunwale and deck height stands out the most to me vs the 35. Cockpit size between the 35 and 38 full staggered models is very close. Engine compartment is nearly the same size, few inches more in the 38 bow to stern measurements.
38 Bravo boats run best with ITS, seems the 35 Bravo boats run best without ITS. There are many 35s without it for some reason. Again, we are talking full stagger boats.
There are a few owners of both on here, hopefully they will chime in their thoughts.

Thank you for your response. Would you happen to know the weight of a 38 staggered with or without ITS? I am on a freshwater lake in upstate New York and keep the boat on the lake. Therefore, the boat would have to be lifted and the lifts and Docks have to come in and out every year, and also it sounds like you’ve had quite a bit experience in the larger fountains. How fast would you say a 38 with 525 staggers would run in stock conditions

You'd rather have those external rams than ITS ......or did I miss read your post.