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.

Where do you boat?

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!

Then you need a 24' Cigarette

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

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

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.?

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.

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.

Hi!

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

Cheeers, Toffen G

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!