Buying Secondhand

This is from an original posting in the forum by Shamus titled “BUYERS BEWARE!” making a point of things to look out for when buying a secondhand kayak

BUYERS BEWARE

Hi Guys,

This is a word of warning to the second hand/trade in buyers.

I frequently come across backshed workmanship that can only be described as dodgy, thats bad, but to mislead a buyer prior to purchase is a shocking thing to do. Most of us have bought items on “Good Faith” at one time or another in our lives and it usually works out fine.

The reason for me writing this, is because of an example of Very Poor Workmanship and a Misleading Deal, which has gone very bad for a new to kayak fishing, Kayak Fisherman. I wont go into details, but will say this, the fitting out of this particular kayak is bordering on dangerous and there is some correcting to be done to bring it up to standard.

Some back yard kit outs are done to a very high standard and there is obviously some thought and research that has been carried out to achieve this, fantastic. But for those that are looking to buy a Kayak second hand, through the local newspaper, a mates mate, trade me etc PLEASE DO YOUR HOMEWORK!

Here are a few tips that I hope will help if you are looking to buy second hand.

Check the Kayaks History, most kayaks have a serial number these days and it is not to hard for the manufacturer to track the original purchaser and if it was sold as a second etc.

Check that the inserts, screws or rivets are not loose, corroded, oxidised, leaking, cross threaded etc (PS. Rivets, Screws and Inserts all have their good and not so good points, please do not be lead to believe otherwise. I have no problem in enlightening you of both sides if you so wish, in the past, all 3 have been the subject of propaganda.)

Check that any electrical fittings were installed by a professional, or to a professional standard. If in doubt, seek a professionals advice.

Check there are no excessive signs of wear on the hull, especially at the rear of the hull. Some brands are better at handling being dragged than others.

Check any Rubber fittings are not perished and that Hatches seal properly.

Know what the limitations are of the kayak you are looking at purchasing, chances are, if its going cheap, its either a really good deal, or a really really bad kayak.

Check that any fittings show no signs of damage, which might cause future problems and that they were fitted and sealed correctly.

Most of all, ask the dumb questions, dont take anything for granted, just because your mate has a kayak doesnt make him an expert. If he has “fished” out of as many brands and models as a couple of the guys I know have, then he might be part way there.

The BIG thing about this fantastic sport we all enjoy so much, is “safety”, there should be no compromise, if you are knowingly selling a Kayak that is unsafe, without letting the buyer know, shame on you!!!

If you are unsure, seek advice from someone who has had a lot of experience in the industry (preferably not a salesman just trying to make a sale)

If this sounds a little strong, Good, its meant to be……I dont like seeing people ripped off or their lives put at risk.

Fish Hard, Paddle Safe.

Cheers

Shamus

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