George:
I too struggled with the M15 vs. M17 decision and
could have gone either way. I bought an M17 primarily because I found a
great deal on a used one and it was on the East coast ( although I drove 3000
miles round trip to bring it home). Your decision basically comes down to how
you will use the boat. I plan on keeping mine at a mooring or rigged up in dry
storage. If I had to set it up each time I was going sailing, I would
definitely get the M15. Other differences: M15 has kick up rudder, M17 is fixed
(ouch!). No backstay on M15, backstay on M17. End boom sheeting on M15, mid
cockpit sheeting for M17 (difficult to set up for a bimini).For extended trips
with crew, the M17 has the advantage: more room, more weight, better sailor.
There also seems to be more M15s on the market than M17. Later model M17s (1986
forward) with the fiberglass centerboard are really rare. You can't go wrong
with either one.
Good luck.
Maria
Sent: Tuesday, May 06, 2003 9:01 PM
Subject: M_Boats: M17 va M15
Hi Montgomery Sailors
I am located in Lancaster,
Pa and retired. I purchased a Seaward 23 and sailed her quite extensively on
the Chesapeake over the past 5 years. I have sold her as I am looking for a
replacement that I can trailer to various venues at will.
My research
has come down to WWP or Montgomery. I have looked at a M15 in Connecticut (not
for sale) and I am impressed as it has a keel and CB (just like my Seaward)
that does not intrude into the cabin.
I have looked at a WWP15 and can
get one at a fair price.
Right now having seen a M15 and reading about
the M17 I am inclined to go with a Montgomery. I do not want to start a debate
about which is better the M15 or M17 but would like some opinions of owners as
to strong points and benefits of each. This would help me in my decision
process. I am also amazed at the range of prices I see for a M17 from 4.5M to
over 10-12M.
Thanking you in advance and looking forward to becoming
active on the list. Hope to be able to make the Chesapeake for 2003. The trip
is one I have made in the past on a Seaward 25 and can say it is worth the
trip.
George
Boatless (not for
long, I hope)
We cannot direct
the wind,
but we can adjust our sails.
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