Barnett 1400 Information, Review, Specs

The Barnett 1400 was first introduced in 1989, a creation of designers Ron and Gerry Hedlund. Their vision was to craft a sailboat that was both easy to handle and quick to set up, offering a blend of comfort and speed for a wide range of sailors. The initial production was handled by Barnett Boats, with manufacturing locations in Illinois and Wisconsin. The boat was specifically designed as a one-design racer, emphasizing fair competition and consistent performance across the fleet.

In line with its ethos of providing quality, accessible boats, Windward Boatworks eventually acquired the tooling for the Barnett 1400, becoming its primary builder. Windward Boatworks, founded by a collective of "young sailors" in 1994, is renowned for its meticulous construction and refinement of established, popular small boat designs. Their manufacturing philosophy, deeply rooted in practicality, durability, and affordability, perfectly aligned with the Barnett 1400's original intent. The hull and deck are constructed from solid fiberglass, ensuring a robust and long-lasting vessel. The daggerboard, a key component, is crafted from mahogany, then coated with marine epoxy and triple-dipped in spar varnish for superior protection and longevity. The boat also features high-quality Harken hardware and a two-piece mast designed by Windward for easy assembly and transport. An optional jib kit is available, allowing owners to enhance performance for more competitive sailing scenarios.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Barnett 1400 is celebrated for its straightforward and responsive sailing characteristics. Designed with "comfort and speed in mind," it offers an enjoyable experience for both novice and seasoned sailors. Its cat-rig (una rig) design, which features a single mainsail without standing rigging, contributes to its simplicity, making it easy to manage and rig quickly. This ease of handling, combined with its "honest sailing characteristics," also makes it an excellent training boat.

With a length overall of just under 14 feet and a light displacement of 140 pounds, the Barnett 1400 is nimble and responsive. The standard kick-up rudder adds to its versatility, allowing for easy navigation in shallow waters and convenient beaching. Sailors frequently praise the 1400 for being a fun boat to sail and particularly well-suited for single-handed excursions. While specific anecdotal descriptions of its behavior in varying sea states are not extensively documented, its design as an easy-to-sail dinghy suggests predictable and manageable handling in typical conditions for its size.

Accommodations and Layout

As a compact sailing dinghy, the Barnett 1400 is designed for day sailing and performance rather than extensive accommodations. It lacks an enclosed cabin or interior living spaces, focusing instead on a functional and spacious cockpit. One of the notable features is the generous size of its cockpit, which provides ample room for two adults. This well-proportioned space includes a deep footwell, allowing for comfortable seating and movement while underway.

The open layout emphasizes practicality and accessibility, ensuring that all controls are within easy reach. The durable fiberglass deck and hull contribute to a low-maintenance exterior. While not featuring an "interior layout" in the traditional sense, the cockpit's design prioritizes comfort and efficiency for its intended purpose, whether for leisurely sails or spirited one-design racing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Barnett 1400 frequently express satisfaction with its performance and user-friendly nature. The boat is consistently praised for its ease of rigging and sailing, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quick and accessible way to get out on the water. Many owners highlight its suitability for single-handed sailing, appreciating its responsiveness and manageable size. It is often viewed as a capable alternative to other popular dinghies, offering a compelling blend of fun and performance. The robust construction, featuring quality components like Harken hardware and a well-finished mahogany daggerboard, is also a point of appreciation among the ownership community. The value proposition of the Barnett 1400 is frequently mentioned, with owners noting that a well-maintained example can be an excellent acquisition. There are no widely reported systemic weaknesses or recurring common maintenance issues specific to the Barnett 1400, beyond general considerations for any used sailboat.