Re: 7' beam vs 8' beam
 

That was my thinking as well. Plus I like to own something "different". But after being in the Checkmate I started considering it. Like I said, it was a huge 25' boat.

Re: 7' beam vs 8' beam
 

Where do you boat?

Re: 7' beam vs 8' beam
 

Most of my boating is done on Torch lake but I do hit Lake Michigan a few times a year. Torch will get the 2'-3' washing machine chop on occasion but no big water. We all know how Lake Michigan can get and I like to drive hard when the rough kicks up! :D

Re: 7' beam vs 8' beam
 

Then you need a 24' Cigarette

Re: 7' beam vs 8' beam
 

Did you look at Active Thunder?
Split it down the middle with an 7'8" beam and if you think the Checkmate feels big :D Rough water capabilities are incredible.

Id go with the Pantera over the Checkmate if I was choosing between the two.

Re: 7' beam vs 8' beam
 

One of the Old Wellcraft Panthers, although 30 footer and twins, has a 7 ft beam. Talk about a boat that cuts 2-3 footers like a knife...there it is.

No Boat, is your avatar a lighter look a like of Mr T.?

Re: 7' beam vs 8' beam
 

I like the AT 25' but haven't seen any in my price range($30-35k). I'll probably stick with the Pantera or Superboat. But I wanted to know if the 8' beam gave any other advantages other than a bigger boat and more stability.

Re: 7' beam vs 8' beam
 

Ummm, I don't know. I guess it kinda does look like him! :)My brother emailed me a link where you could "design" your own avatar pic. So I tried it out one night when I was bored. :D

Re: 7' beam vs 8' beam
 

Hi!

Phantom 25 - 5,5 inch beam. Runs on rails. Soon 95 mph + with twin 2.5 EFI's.

Cheeers, Toffen G :D

Re: 7' beam vs 8' beam
 

I had a Checkmate 253 and was impressed with the ride. However, it is not a "strong" boat. Lots of stress cracks and things started to loosen up after 200 hrs. You can beat the piss out the other 2 and they will smile back at you!