Prospector vs Nomad

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unix_r_us
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Joined: Mon Feb 09, 2009 10:13 am

Prospector vs Nomad

Post by unix_r_us »

First off thanks for all the advice that's handed out on this board. I've been reading a lot of it for the past few days and it's clarified a lot of questions I had. Only a few more and then I'm going to order. :)

I'm trying to decide between building a Prospector and a Nomad as my first canoe. I've done a fair bit of canoeing and multi-day trips, but never built one. I like the style and capacity of the Prospector and Nomad, and while I like the idea of the bigger Nomad, I have a few questions I was hoping someone could help answer.

The specs put the Prospector at 55-60 pounds, and the Nomad at 55-65 pounds. How heavy are they really? I know this depends on a lot, but a few real-life examples would be greatly appreciated :)

The Nomad is only 12 inches longer, but has a bow height that's almost six inches higher than the Prospector (19.25 vs 25). I can't visualize why it would be that much higher. Does it catch more wind than the Prospector? Does that extra height make it harder to handle, or easier, or not make a bit of difference?

Thanks!
mike
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Glen Smith
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Location: Baie-St-Paul, Quebec, Canada

Post by Glen Smith »

There is an error concerning the Prospector bow height, it is actually 25".
Rick
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Joined: Thu May 27, 2004 9:23 am
Location: Bancroft, Ontario

Post by Rick »

Does it catch more wind than the Prospector? Does that extra height make it harder to handle, or easier, or not make a bit of difference?


There may not be any difference in height, but the greater overall size of the Nomad can make it harder to paddle in a wind, if the extra volume isn't going to be used to load more gear on.

The 16' Prospector is a fairly high-volume canoe to begin with, known for being affected by wind. The larger version in the Nomad could make a great sailboat if it's lightly loaded.

:wink
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