Coolerman

The chines are huge on the new ones. They also also have a different x-dimension, and different steps in the boat as well.

THLWL

The early 2005's and earlier had a notched transom. They also had smaller steps. If you see a 2005 or earlier next to a 2006 or later, you will notice a difference in the transom area. My 2006 will maintain a plane at 22 mph and will plane without loss of sight. The larger steps makes the hull very efficient. However, when running at speed, cross winds can require a little steering input. I have run 75 mph w/ twin 525efi's. Extremely happy with cockpit and cabin amenities also.

ACBIII

My wife and I rode on a 07 last weekend at Lake of the Ozarks and man was that an awesome ride. Water was rough in the early afternoon and didnt even notice. Also I was told Black Thunder is building a twin 700 with the NXT1 Drives, I cant what to hear the speed test results. We were looking at other manufacturers and that ride made our minds up, we are hooked on Black Thunder.

THLWL

My progression: 20' Run about then a 32' SeaRay Pachanga then a 38' Baja then the 46' Black Thunder. We looked at the Fountain, Nor Tech, Outerlimits, Sonic, etc. Went to 3 Miami boat shows. Found nothing that came close to the 46' BT size, comfort, & BT Owner & Sales folks. They are located in a small Missouri town and was just a totally friendly process - especially compared to some of the fast paced Eastern mfgs.

Also, in addition to the twin 700 boat being built, they are just completing a twin 850 Merc. boat.

Spiker

Thanks everyone for all of your information, I have been talkingto Bob from BT and this information was not discussed or even thought of during the times we have met. I wanted a little background before I brought this up with him before I commit to buying. I rode on Saxmans 43 at the shootout last year and was sold on the 43, my wife however is leaning with the 46. We aree building 1200hp motors for the boat and will put #6's behind them. Shortly after they are done I want to make my dedcision on how to proceed. We are almost ready for assembly.

Boomer 880

You may want to PM Boatme (on this board). He use to sell BTs and may have additional information on any changes to the bottom over the years.

THLWL

46' altered and only 1 like it. Please explain.

When I bought my 2006 and received it in late 2005, they had changed the mold for the twin engine 46' with the larger steps. They still used the smaller steps for the 46' triple engine at that time. I did ride in the 2005 with the old style small steps and notched transom in Miami. I like the 2006 better - it planes easier and has a little more top in. I do think you have to steer it just a little more in cross winds than the smaller steps.

Coolerman

The only one off BT is our boat. We have made a few changes neccesary to run the speeds we are at, but it was to be expected since it was the first 43' GT with 6's.

THLWL

I also saw where someone not that long ago didn't like the step hull and BT built him a standard (no step) hull. It was for sale a few months ago also.

Coolerman

Ahh, ok, I remember that boat now. They pulled out the original molds for the 43' SC that were used 10yrs ago.