SailNrails wrote:
OK, I saw a Columbia 22 on-line. The page pushed enough
of my buttons that I got curious -- what kind of a
sailing boat are they? any sensible, non-flame opinions
on this site? Over 1500 were made backalong.

Which one? There were two completely different models, with variations of
each.
Tripp (I believe) designed the more recent one. That model hasn't been
built in over 32 years.
If it (either one) is in good shape, has all of the parts in working
condition and it suits your needs, go for it.