Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 22 by Greggory Brock

Year built 1983  
Location of boat Cedar Hill, Texas  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew solo  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 1996  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? I have loved this boat for the last 5 years. I'd buy it again.  
Gear that's been added New sails, Compas, blocks, halyards, wiring, VHF,  
Structural or complex improvements Moved the electrical switch panel from starboard floor level up to main salon bulkhead. If anyone was unfamiliar with the boat, it wasn't unusual to have a switch handle broken off by accident. The bulkhead position allows easier access. Placement of switch panel is above salon table.  
The boat's best features Very rugged and durable. Great light air boat. Swing keel made for impressive downwind performance. Have been as fast as 7.2 knots downwind. Points good. With the right combination of sails, it's fast and manageable solo.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Should have a stronger companionway hatch. The plexiglass cover is asethetic but cracks easily. Should put an extra reef point in the main sail. It would allow for more latitude in sail selection.  
Sailing characterisitcs Doesn't require much air to move. Excellent steerage at very slow speeds ( 0.5 knots ). Excellent performance in medium air ( 10 knots ) with mild weatherhelm. The sweet spot ( chine ) was 15 - 20 degrees of heel. Easier to handle on a starboard tack because of outboard position on transom. In wind around 15 knots, an 80% jib powers down effectively to allow for excellent control and minimal round up. In winds above 20 knots, reefing and powering down are the key to good control with medium weatherhelm.  
Motoring characterisitcs I had a 4hp Johnson outboard that swivels for directional control. You can spin it on a dime. Didn't require very much power to push the hull. Anything bigger than a 4 or 5 hp motor would just be added weight.  
Liveability For a 22' foot boat, it wasn't bad. The porta potty is in the V-Berth and with a curtain added between the bulkheads, provides some privacy. It'll sleep 4 comfortably. Headroom was good if you were kneeling or sitting in the salon. The port and starboard quarter berths are very comfortable. The drop leaf table in the salon is a perfect fit for the design.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Positive  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any They were very helpfull.  
Other comments This is an excellent first boat. It's sailing characteristics provide an excellent platform for sail trim and speed performance. The interior design is ergonomic and asethetically pleasing.