pre fab radar arch choices, any thoughts?

[Illogikal99]

http://www.fishonsports.com/100morepics2.html

http://www.atlantictowers.com/products_fishing_arch.php

was sold on Atlantic but I stumbled across Fish on sports arch and now I'm not so sure... Half the price of atlantic and available with the same options. Does anyone have any experience with either of these arches?

[Destroyer]

Not familiar with fish on sports units so can't comment on them, but I can say that I have a yet to be installed Atlantic Towers arch. Gotta admit, it's well made. Heavy walled aluminum tubing. 1.625 ID, 2" OD. Very impressed with the quality.

[Illogikal99]

Originally Posted by Destroyer

Not familiar with fish on sports units so can't comment on them, but I can say that I have a yet to be installed Atlantic Towers arch. Gotta admit, it's well made. Heavy walled aluminum tubing. 1.625 ID, 2" OD. Very impressed with the quality.

I have seen Atlantics work at the boat shows out here, I second your observation... I'd hate to be the guy that got a great deal on a piece of garbage but that Fish on arch was mighty tempting. maybe not worth the risk???

[spareparts]

didn't MJ get an Atlantic Towers arch?

[chumbucket]

Yes, MJ has an Atlantic Towers hard top. As far as I know he's been very happy with it. I helped him install it and can say first hand that they are well made.

[RWilson2526]

Originally Posted by Illogikal99

I have seen Atlantics work at the boat shows out here, I second your observation... I'd hate to be the guy that got a great deal on a piece of garbage but that Fish on arch was mighty tempting. maybe not worth the risk???

I couldnt find on their website what material they used....call them and ask them what size tubing they use. if its comparable i'd be tempted to give it try.

[Destroyer]

Originally Posted by RWilson2526

I couldnt find on their website what material they used....call them and ask them what size tubing they use. if its comparable i'd be tempted to give it try.

Their website says: "Very strong and usable unit. Built from 2" schd 40 aluminum tube." So in that respect they mimic the AT's units...Can't comment on their welds or hardware. Truthfully, just looking at their site, I have to agree with you that their towers do look nice, and the prices are about half of AT's ..tough call on which way to go.

[Illogikal99]

Originally Posted by Destroyer

Their website says: "Very strong and usable unit. Built from 2" schd 40 aluminum tube." So in that respect they mimic the AT's units...Can't comment on their welds or hardware. Truthfully, just looking at their site, I have to agree with you that their towers do look nice, and the prices are about half of AT's ..tough call on which way to go.

Ok, so I'm not crazy for suspecting a deal. I need to look into them a bit more but I'm partial to saving some cash. As far as build quality, I'm pretty sure I won't be doing pull ups on either arch. just need it to get the rods, antennas and spreader lights where they should be, out of the way... If I end up grabbing the Fish-on arch I'll keep you guys in the loop with pics and reviews. I may be willing to be the guinea pig on this one! If anyone finds out anything more let me know.

[Illogikal99]

BTW the difference may be in the finish. Fish-on site mentions powdercoat as the finish but then there is an upcharge for "mirror aluminum" finish. I have to call the company to see if this means anodized or powdercoat faux aluminum... if it is powdercoated, what would be the consensus then?

[macojoe]

been happy with mine from AT!!













This Tuna is 150 pounds hanging off there!