Buying a 420

 

"What should I buy?"

Unfortunately, there is no one answer, it’s about what suits you and how much money you want to spend.  You can pick up a great 420 starter boat for around £2k; this will have everything you would need to get started in the Class and racing at events.  Coming new to the Class we understand that it can feel quite daunting, especially if you've come from a Topper, Tera or Feva where they there are limited options to change your rigging.  If you are coming from an Optimist then you'll be used to having options to change your rig to suit your weight and the conditions! BUT ultimately at the start the make of boat, age of boat won't make too much difference - all the boats are rigged and sailed the same way!  You need to learn how to rig the boat, how to sail the boat and how to race the boat; you don't need to spend a fortune to get started - once you are established in the Class you may want to upgrade and by then you'll know what you need/want.

Which hull make to buy is definately an interesting question; in the UK at the moment a MacKay is being favoured by the more tenured sailors however when you get to the contenent sailors tend to favour a Nautavella or Blue Blue.  What we are saying is there is no right answer; choose what is right for you and your sailor at a price that suits you................ older, cheaper boats still win races! 

 

Top Tips

As with any boat, if you are planning to buy a second-hand 420 then there are some top tips to ensure you buy the best possible boat for your money:

Hull Construction Check

Foil Check

Spar Check

Sails

Certificate

Correctors

 

If you have any questions, please contact one of the coaches who will be more than happy to help you.  You can also Click here to view our equipment guide.  

Class Sponsors

International 420 logo
Selden Masts logo
ISAF logo
Vaikobi logo
RYA logo