| Having seen but not sailed a Hardin 41, I can offer only a couple
generalized observations.
She's full-keeled, which translates into a lot of directional stability,
but slow sailing until you get a fair amount of breeze. Less easily
manuevered than most of the now-popular "cruising fin keel" configuration.
Probably quite stiff. Lots of stowage. So go for a sail; see what you
think. Charter for a week if at all possible.
As to construction quality, no idea. Wasn't she built in the Far East
(Taiwan most likely)? If so, you can track down the name of the builder's
yard and judge somewhat from their reputation -- yards over there varied
greatly in the 60's and 70's, perhaps less so today. Although Garden
designs tend towards heavy scantlings, a survey should tell the tale.
Have you checked out Cruising World's "Another Opinion" listing to see if
Hardin 41 is listed there? Probably your best source of info, though most
opinions expressed by owners (usually satisfied enough to brag about their
choice in "Another Opinion", or seeking to help maintain their craft's
value in the used market) should be diluted with a measure of reality --
skepticism, to some -- to remove some of the effects of I-own-one-itis.
J.
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