Gear questions from a new guy.

I've been reading and shopping, trying to find the right kayak for me.

I found this on CL and wondering what you all think of this deal...

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/spo/4792614159.html

It's my understanding that they stopped making the Scrambler in 2000. But it seems to have good reviews.

When is a kayak too old? Does time break down HDPE regardless of what care is taken? Does the faded color of this kayak I've shared bring up any concerns?
Any thoughts on the price for this kayak including the extra gear?

Thanks all. I've really enjoyed reading and learning here at ncka.

Vincent

I would say the price looks fair with the extra stuff. Someone else needs to answer the question on the plastic. Probably ok. I've seen some pretty faded but functional kayaks.

Seems like a pretty good deal, and I have enjoyed many great trips and notable catches on my Scrambler XT.  You should be able to judge the fitness of the plastic when you see it in person.  Ask if you can lift the hull and bounce it on the pavement from about 6" off the ground - should be resilient and not at all crackly.  Not very scientific, but I think the feel of the boat as it impacts the ground will tell the tale.

Best of luck.   

If you buy it, I would like to buy the Kokatat PFD. Thanks

I've used a scrambler xt angler edition for quite awhile.  It's a solid yak. Very stable. It's slow in rough water, seat sits very low so u get a wet ass. Not a lot of mounting options either.  It handles well in the surf, turns easily and is light weight.   I'll be getting a new yak next season but will be keeping this one for friends and family.

Price is about right with the gear.

Price seems high for what looks like a pretty weathered boat.  What you'd be getting is a recreational paddler that will get you by but not be all that great for fishing. That paddle is a cheapie, the anchors are really big for a yak, the helmets aren't real useful unless you surf launch in big waves and the pfd is a good one.

I say hold out.

I've owned a few of those original Scramblers and never paid more than $250 including gear. The gear in that ad is worth more than the boat itself. Honestly, I would keep looking for a newer yak because you s/b able to find one in the 400-500 range.

It looks like it has been stored outdoors. If so, I wouldn't buy it. It's a good boat though and pretty light weight.

Despite the fact that it comes with some decent extras, it seems pretty steep for that boat in that condition. Had to tell from the pictures but it looks like it has some degree fading and sun damage. And as for the extras, do you need the helmets ? Drift chute ? Anchor ? You may be paying for stuff that you'll never use. Keep looking, you'll find the right boat at the right price.

I'd hold out, it's not a bad deal but you can do better.

Thanks guys.
Two days and no response from seller.

It sounds like a heavily faded kayak isn't such a good bet.

I'll keep looking

Vincent

Definitely wait. You can do much better. That yak has seen some serious UV exposure... It's bound to be getting brittle.

And those "extras" sound good in print, but like others said you aren't getting much. That paddle is probably worth $10, if that. Helmets? Not needed. Anchors? I never use mine, but only paid like $30 for it anyway. Those wheels won't work on sand; you'll want Wheeleez. The PFDs look nice, but you'll want to try lots on and get one that fits you.

I bought my old Scrambler XT for $300 with a handful of extras (seat, paddle, yakima cradles and a dry bag). It was stored indoors.

Scrambler XTs are nice simple boats though. They definitely catch fish.