Ballistic Ribs - any good?

[Revenger715]

Seen a couple in the flesh at JBT and they look nice, be interested to hear from any owners. 7m plus is where I am at.



Not entirely sure on the front end (I prefer a pointy Bow!).

[Mr RIB]

Sound product. Dry riding, excellent handling and fast with the right outboard motor, although can be a bit harder riding than other similar sized Ribs with a deeper V hull.

Better than many in terms of construction and safety, being more predictable and the layout probably better suited to the UK type of boating than many other makes with more of a Mediterranean layout; reasonable value too.

[AAsteve]

I have a 7.8 ballistic
Not had it long
Really liked the reviews of them and went down to jbt where they took me out for a test drive
The aftercare they have given was awesome
I found a few niggles and they took the rib back to rectify everything
Can't really fault Tom and his team
You are welcome to come out for a blast to get a feel for them anytime

[Maximus]

Nos??..where are ya??
He's done a pretty deep re-ferb on one so should know them inside out
If he's missed your thread maybe give him a PM.

[allroad4]

I've had a 5.5 Ballistic for a couple of year now that I bought from JBT. Whilst its not the 7m+ you're looking for, I can't fault the quality or its sea-keeping ability. When I look to change, it will be for another, bigger Ballistic.

[Fender]

Originally Posted by allroad4

I've had a 5.5 Ballistic for a couple of year now that I bought from JBT. Whilst its not the 7m+ you're looking for, I can't fault the quality or its sea-keeping ability. When I look to change, it will be for another, bigger Ballistic.

Always a good sign if you stick to a brand when you upgrade
To the OP, beg yourself a ride on one, always better to make a informed decision

[Tim M]

JBT run monthly “open days” when you can just turn up and try their boats (see their page on Facebook). As per the above, well respected brand (built in South Africa but rigged by JBT who are their U.K. distributor). Quite a hard, fast “sporty” ride with lots of grip on the hull if you start throwing it around a bit. Nice layout ideal for families in U.K. waters. They’ve recently started doing some new colour combinations, not just white/blue/grey which look interesting. They also seem to hold their value quite well.

[Revenger715]

Thanks all - very good info.

Yes agreed on JBT, top bunch down there. Nothing seems to be too much trouble.

I will keep an eye on their next open day schedule - weather needs to warm up first...!!