zildjian Posted May 20, 2015 Posted May 20, 2015 Hey, I just realized these retractable tie downs exists and I very much want them now for my tracker lol. Quick question for anyone who owns Boat Buckles, would you recommend the standard size or the mini size buckle? I feel like the standard is big and bulky for my tracker and I see they also have a Mini version as well, I just don't want to make the mistake of buying things twice. Any thoughts or recommendations from you guys that have either one of these products would be really appreciated. Thanks, -zildjian Quote
Super User Jig Man Posted May 20, 2015 Super User Posted May 20, 2015 Get the standard. That is what I've been using for a long time. Quote
Super User WIGuide Posted May 20, 2015 Super User Posted May 20, 2015 Get the standards, I had the mini's on my last boat, and although they work, the spring inside them to retract the strap is crap. Maybe they've fixed the issue, but with the ones I had the feature was toast in under a year. I called the company and they replaced it no questions asked, but about a month after I replaced the first one the other one went. Replacement lasted about the same amount of time. When I took it apart you couldn't even tell there was a spring in there, just fragments of rust. They are still usable, but you have to ratchet them back down to retract the strap. I've kept one to use as the safety strap on the bow which it works well for. The regular boat buckles are built to last. My dad has a 99 Ranger that came with them from the factory that still work like new. A shot of WD40 a few times a year keeps them from getting sticky. Definitely worth the investment. 1 Quote
zildjian Posted May 20, 2015 Author Posted May 20, 2015 Thanks guys! I'll go with the Standard Stainless Steel now. Appreciate the posts Quote
Al Wolbach Posted May 20, 2015 Posted May 20, 2015 Thanks guys! I'll go with the Standard Stainless Steel now. Appreciate the posts You will be glad you did on stainless and standard 1 Quote
junyer357 Posted May 20, 2015 Posted May 20, 2015 Yea. Better to be overkill than not enough. Either that or check weight ratings on buckles compared to existing ones perhaps. 1 Quote
Global Moderator Bluebasser86 Posted May 21, 2015 Global Moderator Posted May 21, 2015 The boat I have now is the first time I've had them on my trailer. I'll never own another one without them. Quote
SwampLife Posted May 22, 2015 Posted May 22, 2015 The boat I have now is the first time I've had them on my trailer. I'll never own another one without them. Exactly what he said... I love them Quote
rboat Posted May 26, 2015 Posted May 26, 2015 I was just wondering, how do you know if you need the bracket adapter for mounting boat buckles to your trailer? Do you just have to try it first and then buy the adapter if it does not fit? I could not find any info on how to mount on different trailers. Thanks. 1 Quote
livemusic Posted May 26, 2015 Posted May 26, 2015 Why do you guys like these so much, what do they do for you? I saw Boat Buckles in Academy today and I think they were $70. I saw some in BPS and their brand was $50. Quote
no39 Posted May 26, 2015 Posted May 26, 2015 Why do you guys like these so much, what do they do for you? I saw Boat Buckles in Academy today and I think they were $70. I saw some in BPS and their brand was $50. Let me answer your question with a question. How much are you willing to pay for less hassle at the boat ramp? For me, it's about 70 bucks. I'd even pay 100 dollars if I never have to see one of these things again. I know it's not necessary but it makes launching easier. I don't have to look for the straps at the bottom of a hatch or mess with a questionable cam lock. It works, it's quick, and I can't lose it because its bolted to the trailer. 2 Quote
livemusic Posted May 26, 2015 Posted May 26, 2015 Let me answer your question with a question. How much are you willing to pay for less hassle at the boat ramp? For me, it's about 70 bucks. I'd even pay 100 dollars if I never have to see one of these things again. I know it's not necessary but it makes launching easier. I don't have to look for the straps at the bottom of a hatch or mess with a questionable cam lock. It works, it's quick, and I can't lose it because its bolted to the trailer. I am DEF about making life easier at the ramp, you can bet! We certainly agree. I am just mad that I just a week or so ago bought the ones you hate before I even saw this thread. My straps work okay but I have to wrap the loose end around the main strap a few times to keep it from flapping in the breeze. I guess I could probably figure out the exact length and make them better. Doesn't take long to cinch it down but the fancy ones are def a better option, worth the money. Quote
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