old town guide canoe
The Old Town Guide Canoe
The Old Town Guide is a tough and versatile canoe. Its sleek design with sharp entry line and ample stability combines to give a great feeling on the water. The Guide 147 and 160 are popular models known for their durability, efficiency, and affordability. These canoes are ideal for various paddling activities, including fishing, camping, and family outings.
A Classic Canoe for All Paddlers
The Old Town Guide canoe has become a classic choice for paddlers of all skill levels. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of activities, from leisurely day trips to more adventurous expeditions. The Guide 147 and 160 models, in particular, are renowned for their ability to handle various water conditions and carry substantial loads. Whether you’re fishing, camping, or simply enjoying a relaxing paddle with family or friends, the Old Town Guide offers a stable and comfortable ride. Its durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use, making it a reliable companion for years to come.
History and Legacy
The Old Town Canoe Company has a rich history dating back to 1898, making it one of the most respected names in the canoe industry. The Guide canoe series, in particular, has a strong legacy, having been a favorite of experienced guides and enthusiasts for decades. The iconic Guide 147 and 160 models continue to embody the company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design. The Guide 16, a classic design, has been used by guides in the backcountry for years, showcasing its durability and performance. Old Town canoes have even made appearances in popular culture, with seven Guide models being used in the filming of the iconic movie “Deliverance,” solidifying their place in history.
The Guide 147
The Old Town Guide 147 is a 14-foot, 6-inch canoe designed for versatility and stability. Its unique cross-section and stabilizing chines provide exceptional stability, making it suitable for fishing, photography, and family paddling. The Guide 147 is also surprisingly efficient to paddle, thanks to its sharp entry line, which reduces water resistance. Its durable construction, featuring a foam core for insulation and flotation, makes it a reliable choice for various water conditions. The Guide 147 is known for its affordability, offering a high-quality canoe at a competitive price. This combination of features makes the Guide 147 a popular choice for paddlers seeking a durable, stable, and efficient canoe.
Design and Features
The Old Town Guide 147 features a sleek design with a sharp entry line and a wide beam for added stability. This combination allows the canoe to glide efficiently through the water, requiring less paddling effort. The Guide 147 boasts a unique cross-section and stabilizing chines that enhance its stability, making it suitable for various paddling activities. The canoe’s hull is constructed using Old Town’s advanced roto-molded, 3-layer linear polyethylene, resulting in a strong and stiff canoe. It also features a foam core that provides built-in flotation and insulation from cold water and noise. Other notable features include black vinyl gunwales, a polyethylene deck with integral grab handles, contoured polyethylene seats, and an ash carrying yoke.
Performance and Stability
The Guide 147’s sharp entry line and efficient hull design contribute to its surprisingly efficient paddling performance. Its wide beam and stabilizing chines provide exceptional stability, making it suitable for fishing, photography, or simply enjoying a leisurely paddle with family and friends. The canoe’s stability is further enhanced by its slightly arched bottom, which helps it handle waves with ease. The Guide 147’s foam core construction adds to its rigidity and durability, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of various paddling conditions.
Pros and Cons
The Old Town Guide 147 offers several advantages, including its exceptional stability, durable construction, and surprisingly efficient paddling performance. Its foam core construction provides built-in flotation and insulation against cold water and noise, making it a reliable choice for various paddling conditions. However, some paddlers might find the canoe’s weight a slight drawback, especially for solo paddling or portaging. The Guide 147’s relatively wide beam can also make it less maneuverable in tight spaces or narrow waterways. Ultimately, the pros and cons of the Guide 147 should be weighed against your individual paddling needs and preferences.
The Guide 160
The Guide 160 is a 16-foot rigid canoe designed for versatility and durability. Its cross-section and chines contribute to its stability and efficiency, making it suitable for fishing, camping, and family outings. The Guide 160 features a low profile, which reduces windage, and a long, flat floor for stability in various water conditions. It is a popular choice for those seeking a canoe that can handle a variety of paddling adventures, from leisurely day trips to multi-day expeditions. Like its smaller counterpart, the Guide 147, the Guide 160 is known for its durable construction, thanks to Old Town’s advanced roto-molded, 3-layer linear polyethylene design.
Design and Features
The Guide 147 boasts a unique cross-section with stabilizing chines, contributing to its exceptional stability. This design ensures a secure and comfortable ride, even when loaded with gear or passengers. The sharp entry line of the hull promotes efficient paddling, allowing the canoe to glide through the water with minimal effort. The Guide 147 is built with Old Town’s advanced roto-molded, 3-layer linear polyethylene construction, resulting in a durable and stiff canoe. This robust design ensures the canoe can withstand the rigors of various paddling adventures; The canoe also incorporates a foam core, which provides built-in flotation and insulation against cold water and noise. This feature adds to the overall safety and comfort of the paddling experience.
Performance and Stability
The Guide 147 is renowned for its exceptional stability, making it an excellent choice for various paddling activities. The wide beam provides extra stability, making it ideal for fishing, photography, or family paddling. The sharp entry and exit lines of the hull allow the canoe to glide efficiently, requiring less paddling effort. The slightly arched bottom adds to the stability, ensuring a smooth ride even in choppy waters. Paddlers appreciate the Guide 147’s ability to handle various water conditions with ease. The canoe’s performance is further enhanced by its efficient design, minimizing windage and maximizing maneuverability. This allows paddlers to navigate diverse waterways with confidence and control. The Guide 147 is a reliable and versatile canoe that delivers a satisfying paddling experience.
Pros and Cons
The Old Town Guide 147 offers several advantages for paddlers. Its durable construction, featuring a foam core for flotation and insulation, makes it a reliable choice for various conditions. The canoe’s stability is a significant advantage, allowing for comfortable paddling with passengers or gear. The Guide 147’s efficient design reduces paddling effort, enhancing the overall experience. However, some users might find the canoe’s weight a drawback, especially for solo paddling or portaging. Additionally, the lack of a keelson might make the canoe more susceptible to swaying in strong winds or choppy waters. Ultimately, the Guide 147’s pros outweigh its cons for many paddlers, especially those seeking a stable and durable canoe for recreational use.
Choosing the Right Guide Canoe
Selecting the appropriate Old Town Guide canoe depends on your individual needs and paddling preferences. The Guide 147 is a versatile option for solo paddlers, couples, or small families, offering a balance of stability and maneuverability. If you anticipate frequent solo trips with minimal gear or prioritize agility, the Guide 147 might be ideal. However, if you frequently carry heavy loads or plan to paddle with larger groups, the Guide 160’s increased capacity and stability might be more suitable. Consider the type of paddling you intend to do, the frequency of solo or tandem trips, and the weight of your gear when making your decision. Researching reviews and comparing features of both models will help you choose the Old Town Guide canoe that best aligns with your paddling goals.
Maintenance and Care
Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the longevity and performance of your Old Town Guide canoe. After each use, rinse your canoe thoroughly with fresh water to remove any dirt, sand, or debris. Pay particular attention to the hull, gunwales, and seats. Store your canoe upside down on sawhorses or a similar rack, ensuring it is protected from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and damage to the polyethylene material. Regularly inspect the hull for cracks, dents, or scratches, and consider applying a sealant or wax to protect the surface from UV rays and water damage. Additionally, lubricate the carrying yoke and hardware periodically to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. By following these simple maintenance practices, you can extend the life of your Old Town Guide canoe and enjoy many years of enjoyable paddling adventures.
Where to Buy
Old Town Guide canoes are widely available through various retailers and online platforms. Authorized Old Town Canoe dealers often offer a comprehensive selection of models and accessories, providing expert advice and personalized service. Many outdoor sporting goods stores, such as Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, carry Old Town Guide canoes, allowing you to compare different models and receive assistance from knowledgeable staff. Online retailers, such as Amazon and REI, offer convenient purchasing options and often have competitive pricing. Additionally, specialty canoe and kayak shops offer a curated selection of Old Town Guide canoes and may provide specialized services like customization and repairs. When choosing a retailer, consider factors such as location, pricing, customer reviews, and the availability of support services.
The Old Town Guide canoe, particularly the Guide 147 and 160 models, represents a reliable and versatile option for paddlers seeking a durable, efficient, and affordable canoe. Its design combines stability and maneuverability, making it suitable for various activities, from leisurely paddling to fishing and camping. The Guide’s popularity stems from its construction, utilizing a foam core for increased stiffness and insulation, and its features, including contoured seats, adjustable backrests, and an ash carrying yoke. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a novice, the Old Town Guide offers a satisfying experience on the water, providing a sense of stability and confidence while exploring lakes, rivers, and waterways.
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