Help me make a decision

Allen, I don't think anyone disagrees with you, we just said it differently.  If I had room in my garage, I'd be plotting how to get one right now.

Well ...

I've never surfed launched a predator, but I've used one, and anyone in their right mind wouldn't attempt it on anything more than wind chop.

I disagree with the above.  That, or I'm not in my right mind.   

How many of you paddle outbacks through the surf?  I would imagine the Predator 13 would be better and the MX better still.

-Allen

Most people kick their outback through the surf, they don't paddle them.  I like the predator, but surf launching/landing in it, in real swell, would blow.

I like the predator, but surf launching/landing in it, in real swell, would blow.

+1

I like the predator, but surf launching/landing in it, in real swell, would blow.

+1

Have either of you tried?  I haven't, but I don't think I would shy away from it.

-Allen

Allen, I don't think anyone disagrees with you, we just said it differently.  If I had room in my garage, I'd be plotting how to get one right now.

Well ...

I've never surfed launched a predator, but I've used one, and anyone in their right mind wouldn't attempt it on anything more than wind chop.

I disagree with the above.  That, or I'm not in my right mind.   

How many of you paddle outbacks through the surf?  I would imagine the Predator 13 would be better and the MX better still.

-Allen

I normally pedal my outback out but paddle it back in...especially if the waves are more than a couple feet...I feel like I'm more in control and can use the paddle to brace with. Plus, with the drive out and rudder up I can usually "surf" right up onto the beach.

Of course on a couple of occasions, as Roger will point out, I've found myself just swimming next to it. 

Have either of you tried?  I haven't, but I don't think I would shy away from it.

-Allen

No, we're in our right mind.  ;-)

Have either of you tried?  I haven't, but I don't think I would shy away from it.

-Allen

No, we're in our right mind.  ;-)

Hah!  Maybe.

A couple of notes for paddling the Pred.  With the elevated seat and the wider platform, a 240 cm paddle helps get more out of it.  Also, it does take a few more strokes for a hole shot.  If you're used to starting a sprint with 3-4 hard strokes, try taking 5-6.  It glides ok after that.  The pred edges pretty good too.  If you know how, do it.  If you don't, learn.

-Allen