C-Forum

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

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.

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!

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.

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.