First off, I have a few questions, so thanks in advance to anyone that offers advice. I am not new to the RC hobby, but it has been a while. A few years ago I owned a Dumas Big Swamp Buggy, which I loved but after a while the bottom got torn up (decided to play in the winter and drive it on snow), and since then have not gotten back into the sport. Have owned a few trucks and cars, but haven't pulled them out in quite some time.


After searching Google I came across this site and saw how helpful and knowledgeable people are, so I thought this would be a great place to start. I have been looking at a few different boats, and really am not sure what should be the deciding factor when picking a hull. I have been pretty sold on the Aeromarine Outerlimits XXX, but was just reading a post by Marc on here and he was talking about the Insane Gen 3 he just built up which also looks amazing. So I guess first thought is, how did everyone determine what style hull they wanted? I am wanting something that handles well and just flat out hauls ass (50-60 MPH area). I am not into the RTR as I think part of any hobby is taking pride in saying you built it (would love to build from scratch.. but realize I am nowhere capable of that task).

So.. picking hulls.. suggestions?? I live in Alaska so am looking for a good winter project and something I can tinker with and take my time.

Again thanks in advance for any advice and I look forward to hearing what everyone here has to say. Also this is probably a little out there but if anyone knows any good hobby shops in Alaska that could offer some help that would be a great help.

Andy

Hi Andy and welcome to the site.

Both the Insane and the AM xxx are great boats. Your decision should be based largely on which one you like best as far as looks since they are pretty close in performance. I can give you a few differences that might help you decide also.

The Insane Gen 3 is a faster hull than the XXX in general, because of it's bottom design. The layup is also thicker and will be a bit more durable. The XXX on the other hand is a boat that will handle "bigger" water better if that is a factor for you. Both can be great heat racers, but I take it that will not be your primary use for the boat. Don't take my comments about the layup as a negative for the AM, I am simply pointing out the fact that they are not laid up the same.

I personally would have a hard time choosing between the 2 if I had to! I personally race the Insane. I have been doing so since 2004 (running different generations of the hull) and love them!

Another hull to consider if you are looking for a big water boat that can also race is the AC Lazer. The AC Razor also.

For pure racing, there are also the Stryker Y6, and Rampage which are great boats.

The list is long, but what I always tell people is pick one that catches your eye and go with it, while staying with the reputable companies.

I think a LOT of you decision should be based on WHERE you plan on running it ?

If a nice back county lake that stays pretty calm ... a RACE mono will give the bigger thrill.

If running in a more open spaces, offshore etc. Then a FULLY COWLED off shore style will be a lot more forgiving and still be loads of fun.

** Personally, Soon as my 5 year old Microburst gets destroyed it is going to be replaced by an AC LASER with full cowl.
Or a Herzog Hurricane with full cowling.

Thank you both for such a quick response. The water I would run in will vary a little bit, but mostly will be a very calm lake which has banned full size boats. I think I am pretty hooked on the Insane Mono - Gen 3 now. Will look a little more but probably order the hull soon when I get back home. I was also curious, I have seen some of the boats running duel rudders. Is this an advantage or disadvantage? Personally I just love the look of that set up, but it seems like it would cause more drag. Does it offer better handling? Thanks again for your help.

Andy

Dual rudders are something to stay away from if you want to go fast. The performance will suffer a lot. They are ok on larger sport boats.

Thanks Scott for bringing up the Hurricane Mono...I had forgotten that one. So many to chose from!

If your water is fairly calm (chop 3-4" or less for example) you need not worry that the Insane will perform!

Enforcer now have the all new Silex mono also. Looks like it will be a competitor. I have heard good things about it.

www.modelgasboats.com/magazine...w-Products.html

Ok.. pretty set on the Insane mono.. Question though is there is 3 generations. I always though rule of thumb is the newest one is usually the better one. But the Gen 2 cost more than the Gen 3. Is there a reason for this? Which gen would u recommend?

The Gen1 and Gen3 are the same price. The Gen2 is a little bit more expensive because it comes with a cowl. If you get the Gen3 and add the cowl it will actually be a bit more expensive than the Gen2. It all depends what you want! To go fast I would go with the Gen3. It also has a larger deck opening that makes it easier to work in the boat.

I just got done reading your review on the Gen 3. I am sold.. is it possible to have the exhaust exit out the rear transom? or do u have to have it come out the cowl? Thanks again for all your help, can't wait to get back home and have a great winter project..