Dagger Encore opinions?

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Jim Michaud
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Dagger Encore opinions?

Post by Jim Michaud »

I’m thinking of buying an Encore at a pretty good price. I’ve never paddled one so what are your opinions as to whether I would like this boat. How does it compare to the MR Outrage which is my favorite boat?

Jim
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Post by milkman »

Obviously, it's a big boat compared to the Outrage. It would seem like an odd way to go--bigger rather than smaller. It would be a great solo tripping canoe though. Same reason I keep a Genesis around.
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marclamenace
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Post by marclamenace »

Some of my paddling buddies really love their encore. If you're looking at using it as a playboat you may be deceived but as a multi-days tripper it is pretty good. Old design, a bit narrow in the ends but still a great boat. As a playboat you just don't need the extra buyoancy, lenght, the ends won't keep you as dry as the outrage and should be harder to turn a little bit.

Just my .02 pennies!
Watch out; that river has rocks on the bottom. :o
pblanc
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Post by pblanc »

I love the Encore and it remains one of my favorite designs.

Compared to the Outrage it is not only longer but quite significantly wider which makes cross strokes a little harder. The Encore will be slower than the Outrage. I'm not necessarily talking maximum theoretical hull speed but "quickness". The Outrage accelerates more readily due to its lesser width.
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Post by bambam »

Hi Jim.

Ken Dubel here a la Alicia in your boat in the Grand Canyon in 2010. Me too, by the way, as I paddled your boat for a bit.

Affectionately known in our circles as an Encore-a-saurus, it has its place. There are a few die-hard fans who would likely buy it from you if you don't like it.

I've enjoyed a few class II - III runs in borrowed ones. Decent speed, rather forgiving, surprisingly agile, but yes, it's a big boat by today's standards.

I did have a "hey y'all, watch this" moment on the Dry Fork of Cheat at "Hole Brothers"in an Encore. I knew I'd get stuck but it's a no-consequences place. The lack of chines makes it hole bait. I went in on a side-surf. Filled the boat. Could NOT get out. I grabbed the bow painter, jumped out of the boat past the boil line, dragged the boat out, and had a snack.

Good fun.
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