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Utility vs. Sportsman??

Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2017 7:46 pm
by JacobErdey
Hi, I recently purchased an old Chris Craft to restore that has no noticeable markings to determine the exact model. I do know that it is an 18' 1950 model, but that's about it. I've seen others online that look almost identical, but have also noticed that they seem to be labeled as a Utility Deluxe, or Deluxe Sportsman, or U18, or Sportsman 18, etc. I was just wondering if these are basically different ways of saying the same thing, or if there are specific things I can look at to determine the correct model? So I can then move on with my restoration in the proper direction. Any help would be greatly appreciated

Re: Utility vs. Sportsman??

Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2017 8:17 pm
by jim g
Sportsman is just a fancier way to say utility for marketing.

Re: Utility vs. Sportsman??

Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2017 8:52 pm
by Captain Nemo
Welcome to the Boat Buzz Jacob,
If you can find the hull number that will determine what exactly you have there. You should find the number stamped on an engine stringer, seat backs or on other parts of the boat.
To the best of my knowledge there was a model called “Utility”, and also of course the “Sportsman”. Utility is also a generic term for an open boat style.

Re: Utility vs. Sportsman??

Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2017 8:54 pm
by Doug P
Personally, I have been more described as a utility, not a sportsman

Re: Utility vs. Sportsman??

Posted: Wed Oct 04, 2017 6:26 am
by Bilge Rat
The post war description for the utility series is confusing, a marketing ploy I think to sell upscale models. Terms like Deluxe Sportsman, Special Sportsman described factory add-ons for cool trim items like mahogany cockpit ceiling planks. chrome stem bands, etc. Later styles were Continentals, Holidays to keep pace with the automotive industry.

I owned a 1955 Special Sportsman (CC-17-2061) and currently own a 1953 Sportsman (U-22-1965) and these are a wonderful all around boat design. The stamped hull number will identify the style and model with the first two numbers being the length.

If you could post a picture it will help in identifying the model.

Re: Utility vs. Sportsman??

Posted: Wed Oct 04, 2017 1:20 pm
by JacobErdey
Thanks for the quick responses! I currently have the boat rolled over and in the process of stripping the bottom, so unfortunately I can't check the engine stringers for possible stamping. But I have checked every other location suggested and had no luck. (It appears the boat may have undergone several poor attempts at a "restoration" and there has been more harm done than good... i.e. someone decided to glass the bottom and make this a nightmare for me, etc.). But I will attach a photo and a link at the bottom that will bring you to a few more, and hopefully someone can steer me in the right direction. P.S. Prepare your eyes for the horrendous condition someone let this classic deteriorate to... I'm going to try my best to bring her back to her original beauty. Thanks again!

https://imgur.com/a/5vsdd

Re: Utility vs. Sportsman??

Posted: Wed Oct 04, 2017 3:36 pm
by Captain Nemo
Yup, you have an 18' Sportsman there. A very worthy project. I miss having a utility style boat, they are useful and lots of fun. Keep posting pics of your progress. :D

Re: Utility vs. Sportsman??

Posted: Wed Oct 04, 2017 4:46 pm
by JacobErdey
Okay great, thanks a lot! I'll be sure to post progress pics along the way. And I'm extremely knew to this, so I'm sure I'll be back with more questions. I appreciate the help