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When looking to buy a new or second hand kayak the first thing is to know is which one
you want and what you are going to use it for as there is a lot to choose from on the market.
There are ones that are designed
for speed and some that are designed for stability and manoeuvrability, for fishing, diving, touring, or just playing around
on.
So once you have decided which one you want see if you can try it before you buy it.
Or
get to one of our forum get together to see if you can try other ones out so you can compare them
There is one or two
thing to look out for when buying a new or second hand kayak.
(1) check the general condition of the kayak
(2) Check the hull for deep scratches
this could lead to a leek or weakness in the hull.
(3) Have a quick look down the centre of the hull to see if the
kayak is bowed you can also tell if it is bowed when you get it on the water by just paddling in a straight line them stop
paddling and if the kayak starts to turn on its own then there is a chance that it’s bowed.
(4) Check along the seam where the two half’s are joined see if they are lined
up with each other and have no pin holes in them.
(5) Check the scupper holes that the seams have no steps in them
as this could be that they are not lined up right and this could become a weak point.
(6) Check all the hatchers that
they fit properly. Some hatchers are a loose fit but these will have a strap to hold it in place.
(7) Seats make sure
the seat is in good order, clips and adjusters are working right.
(8) bungee ropes are all there
(9) The drain bungs are in the kayak.
(10) Footrests make sure they move easy.
(11)
Carrying straps or handles that they are all there.
(12) Fixing make sure they are all stainless steel
(13) Make sure that if a modification has been made to the kayak that it has not altered
the structural integrity of the kayak.
(14) Extras make sure they are all fitted correctly i.e. gps fish finder and
anchor trolley
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