Duster Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Duster sailboat was designed by Owen P. Merrill, with its initial production commencing in 1933. The design quickly gained traction, leading to the formation of the Duster Class Association in 1947, solidifying its status as a recognized one-design class. Lippincott Boat Works, founded in 1946 by brothers Robert and Howard Lippincott, became a key builder of the Duster. This aligns with Lippincott's founding ethos of producing high-performance one-design racing yachts, as detailed in their company history.

The construction of the Duster often utilized a fiberglass and wood composite for the hull, reflecting the evolving boatbuilding techniques of the mid-20th century. While the Lippincott brothers were pioneers in fiberglass construction from the late 1950s onward, their involvement with the Duster would have seen them apply their meticulous building standards to this established design, ensuring a robust and competitive vessel. Early examples of the Duster are noted to have featured oak in their interior finishes, suggesting a blend of traditional craftsmanship with emerging materials.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a compact, cat-rigged dinghy with a length overall of 13.75 feet, the Duster is characterized by its nimble and responsive handling. Its lightweight displacement of 165 pounds, combined with a reported sail area of 117 square feet, contributes to its reputation for good performance, particularly in light air. The Duster's design is often described as "speedy" or "needle-like," indicating a hull form optimized for efficiency and a lively sailing experience.

A key feature contributing to the Duster's versatility is its centerboard keel, which allows for a minimum draft of just 0.18 feet when retracted and a maximum draft of 2.5 feet when extended. This enables the Duster to navigate shallow waters with ease, making it ideal for inland lakes and rivers, and facilitates convenient trailering and beaching. The simple cat-rig configuration also makes the Duster straightforward to single-hand, offering a direct and engaging sailing experience, while its long cockpit provides comfortable seating for two. The boat is capable of a hull speed of approximately 4.17 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The Duster, as a 13.75-foot day sailor, features an open cockpit layout, typical for a boat of its size and purpose, meaning there are no enclosed accommodations or standing headroom. The design prioritizes a spacious and comfortable cockpit, which is ample enough to accommodate two individuals, making it well-suited for recreational outings and casual racing. While not designed for extended cruising, early models were noted to incorporate oak in their interior finishes, lending a touch of classic boatbuilding quality to the open space. Storage on board would be limited to small compartments within the open cockpit, suitable for stowing day-sailing necessities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Duster consistently commend its solid construction and its ability to provide enjoyable sailing, especially when the winds are light. The boat's simplicity and cat-rig configuration contribute to its accessibility, making it an excellent choice for single-handing and offering a direct connection to the sailing experience. The Duster holds a rich historical association with local sailing communities, particularly around the Riverton Yacht Club, which points to a loyal owner base and a vibrant class history. While detailed owner reviews discussing common problems are not widely available, the enduring presence of Dusters and the historical longevity of its class association are strong indicators of a well-regarded and maintainable design that has provided satisfaction to many sailors over the decades.