Go with the 8' beam.

A foot doesn't seem like much, but it really is when you climb into a 7'cockpit then jump into an 8' one.

If your going to race? Then go for a 7' beam and rig two sit down or stand bolsters towards the center of the boat to help the CG.

If your not going to race? Then go for the 8'. Take the stability and the roomier cockpit. Especially if your not going to use it in the ocean everyday.

Good luck with your decision.

Scott,
Give me a call... lost your number..

616-403-1006

Dick

I'm with Pure Energy, my friend's Checkmate had a fair bunch of stuff rattle and get loose--rubrail, coaming panels, door hinges, etc.

pantera 24 has a 7' beam
pantera 28 has a 8' beam

maybe jo can tell us how he feels about both models

Dick, I'll call you this weekend.

7 ft beam are great on boats up to 30 ft max.
The 7 foot beam will give you a better ride in the rough but when you stop to anchor you will roll more in the 7 opposed to the 8 ft beam.