MiniHawk

I've been on a gladiator with a staggered twin 575 set up. They handle chop and mild wakes very well and comfortably also. The lack of a rubrail does create a disadvantage though when it comes to docks (gotta make sure the boat doesn't get scratched up). And gladiators have stepped hulls, because when in doubt, trim it out.

pm203

I just prefer the staggered because I like that set-up. It is kind of like the next generation of the Gladiator. I have been in both set-ups, and they both ride nice. But, I think most people would prefer the staggered. As far as the cockpit, the narrow cockpit just looks cooler, nothing to do with weight or center of gravity.

joefitness123

Like everyone has said, whether it's a wide or narrow cockpit, stag or not, you still have a gladiator. One of the best performing boats around and in limited numbers.. Not only will you have a glad, but it's obviously only made by 1 company...

CIG #1...

You can't go wrong..

MiniHawk

I couldn't have said it better! Thats totally true.

pm203

So true. The beautiful lines without the rubrails is what makes this boat so good looking. But, when you get to the dock, you just have to be prepared. But even if you had rubrails, with any nice noat with nice paint, you still have to be careful.

freshwaterfiend

Does lipship still have their 700sci boat or did they sell it? It doesn't get better than that.

pm203

Sold.

BLee

I totally agree.

My Top Guns with rubrails, were just as easy to scratch as my Skater with no rubrail is. I have always been the type to put the bumpers out BEFORE I approach the dock, so my method didn't change when I went to the Skater with no rubrail.

If you are one that puts the bumpers out after you've already "docked" the boat, the risk is obviously much higher that you will scratch the boat, with or without a rubrail.

The no rubrail aspect is one of the best parts about the Gladiators' style. I couldn't imagine it being a deal breaker for ANY reason, unless the person shopping is literally a first time boater of ANY kind, which means they probably shouldn't be starting with this type of boat anyway.

pm203

Brandon,
Rob (offshoredrillin) can sell you or anyone that may want it a 3m clear rubrail. It is the same stuff they put on the front of cars to save them from stone chipping. The gauge is thicker, and I think its not such a bad idea. It definetely would help for some of the lighter taps against the docks.

OL40SVX

Awesome! Thats all you need to know.