Sport Today

I'm considering buying a small convertible to use in approx. 50% b&j, 25%
slalom, and 25% in wave, in 4.0M to 6.0M wind (I weigh about 135 lbs).  Anyone
out there own these boards and have a recommendation (good or bad).  I'm
particularly interested in the Protect Master Blaster 260 since Windsurf mag
gave it rave review last year.

I own the Axxis 262. It is generally a good board, jibes well, and what
I really like vs the Seatrend is that the outer layer is hard plastic -
does not chip like the Seatrend. I demo'd both and like the Axxis a
little better in the bump and jump Gorge.  That said, I would think
about it again if I was in the market.

What I don't like about either of the boards (now that I am a little
wiser) is that for me (180#) I can't use a sail smaller than 5.0.  At
4.6 I get so much bounce that I need to drop to my 8'1" board. That is
ok when the wind is full, but when I would like the floaty board for the
lulls, I can't have fun in the chop 'cause I am rattling my teeth.

Having owned a larger polyester board, I am considering going back to
one and blasting through the pyscho chop.  I suppose I will put up with
the little dings and the heavier weight to have fun on the water.  Funny
thing is my 8'1" is a light expoxy board and I do not have the problem
which I attribute to the shape; a Gorge wave board.

So what is the lesson?  Look at the template (shape) and pick that first
- a convertible is good but if 90% of your sailing is in one area, I
would buy a shape that fits the area.

Hope this is of some help.

Steve
Windwinger

I've been on the 262 in nuclear winds and had zero problems (rahter the
contrary)  Could it be your setup?  It skits and slides everywhere in
the 'slalom' setup (footstraps outboard).  It's very controllable in the
wave setup (straps onboard).  Even with marginal wind I use the wave
setup, with the mastfoot not too far back.