I'll second the comments on poor performance with any kind of wind. I took
a Hunter 310 out for a weekend at a local anchorage. In 15 knots sailing
upwind there was extreme weather helm even with the traveler eased quite a
bit. Even after putting in a reef the handling was very poor compared to a
Catalina 30 or Beneteau 323. The 310 is nice for taking my non-sailor
friends out for a daysail though. It's cheap to charter for a day, and they
all think it's a beautiful boat.

I took a Hunter 420 to Catalina Island for a 3-day weekend. With the center
cockpit, this thing had a spectacular aft cabin with queen sized bed,
standing room, nice head. But in 18 knots of breeze she was out of control.
It was better after I rolled in some of the main (effectively reefing). But
honestly, this much difficulty handling wind in a boat this size? Awful
performance. Also, the roller furling main was a nightmare. Okay, I
suppose it provides an infinite number of reef points. But the sail shape
is horrible, and it's MUCH more work than just hoisting a sail with a
halyard - I don't see the point at all.

I am no expert in sailing. It's possible I didn't have the boats properly
trimmed. But these experiences sure left me with a poor impression of
Hunters.

"Bart Senior" wrote in message
t...
I'll second Loco on the Ballast/Displacement ratio.

I used to teach on these boats and we were required
to write up three probelms on every boat we took out.
The joke for these Bent-e-toads was the instructors
put "Not enough lead in keel" for a probelm.

In any kind of wind you are reefing down. Roller furling
kills the shape of the head sail. Offshore, with reefed sails
the leeway is horrible. You are lucky if you get 1 knot made
good upwind.

These boats are for inland and coastal waters where you can
anchor at night.

SAIL LOCO wrote

While we are "OT" (on topic), What are the down falls and faults with
Hunters? Give me the down and dirty facts. I don't want to eventually
get
my
dreamboat and find it is a nightmare! :-O

Cheap construction. Balast/displacement ratios probably not suited to
ocean
sailing. Interior layout would not be conducive to your Carib. cruise
plans
which requires days at sea.
S/V Express 30 "Ringmaster"
"No shirt, no skirt, full service"