Compared to modern flat water fitness kayaks the Master 51 has a more traditional symmetrical shape, so widest around the seat section, giving the bow more buoyancy to surf, predictable handling at all speeds, but allowing a more blunt entry. The seating position is also located closer to the bow and the paddler sits more straight, so the catch area is closer and strokes are shorter and more relaxed. This is less efficient but more comfortable in the long run.
Gentle spoon bow performs well in a choppy lake or river and tends to pick up less weed.
As a result this model is mainly for recreational use at clubs or rentals, or for beginner individuals who do not wish to advance to fitness kayaking. A good choice for one-day excursions of more portages when a bigger cockpit size is preferred, but bigger hatches and deck fittings are not a must, they only add unnecessary extra weight.
Constructions differ in the materials and technologies used during the manufacturing process. These determine the stiffness, the weight and the interior appearance of the boat. In practice, an upper construction results a stiffer, more lightweight & spectacular boat, but it requires more caution during use
Besides, the standard and available fittings may be also different in some constructions. These are listed at the "Fittings" section of this article.
ease of handling
easy to repair
heavy weight
flexible hull
ease of handling
easy to repair
more stiff hull
heavy weight
stiff hull
lighter weight
clear carbon-kevlar hull
moderately fragile
limited repairability
stiff hull
lighter weight
clear carbon sufaces
more fragile
limited repairability
ultra stiff hull
lighter weight
clear carbon sufaces
less fragile