Why Buy Husky?

Unlike conventional aluminum airboats, the Husky Nattiq does not have a stringer system throughout the hull for stiffness. In the early years of our development, we learned that cracks developed at the stringer locations. Our current hull is designed to flex, to absorb impact from various ice formations, thus reducing expensive hull repairs and potential leaks normally associated with a rigid construction. To control this flex, we incorporate small air bags that can be adjusted and monitored through a dash-mounted gauge. Another advantage of a flexible hull is a smoother, quieter ride when transporting crew members and/or victims across uneven ice.

Kevlar, one of the strongest, most durable fibers available, is used throughout the boat, including the hull. It is exceptionally light and flexible, and when tested against steel on an equal weight basis it is five times stronger. The Kevlar layers are bonded using the latest techniques resulting in a superior bond. We have also developed a patented process to attach the polyethylene that does not compromise the hull integrity with holes through the bottom of the boat.

Husky Airboats has always mounted the engine below the deck line to reduce the center of gravity. When traveling across ice the boat may be exposed to uneven pack ice conditions and experience high side shock loads. It is these side loads that justify why it is so important to mount that 300-lb. engine as low in the boat as possible. This low mount engine prevents possible fatal injury due to the tipping of the airboat. With the engine located in an enclosed, weatherproof compartment, the passengers are protected from potential danger due to engine component failure (i.e. cooling and oiling system).

We have a raised bow to better control the amount of water coming up over the deck. The bow of our boat was likened to the shape used on the large icebreakers, which promotes easier transition from water to ice. Another benefit of the V-shaped bow is improved dispersal of ice chunks when cutting a track through thin ice. We have a generous chine radius as opposed to square chines or pontoons, which restrict movement through thin ice or snow.

The crew is protected from freezing rain, snow and sleet by an enclosed, heated cabin. The windshield wiper system is heavy duty and well suited for these winter conditions and a defroster allows unobstructed windshield visibility. When operating the boat in snow conditions it is not uncommon for ice to build up on the transom, rudders and steering components. This is the reason that our steering cables are of open cable design – to eliminate the possibility of cable freeze up.

Features:

• Protected Safety For Six
• Responsive Control and Maneuverability
• Dependable Hull Technology
• Being Prepared
• Why Buy Husky?
• Optional Safety Equipment
• Specifications

Comparisons have often been made between the Husky Nattiq and aluminum airboats used primarily in the Florida Everglades. A Husky airboat has features that make it a better alternative to an aluminum boat.