Barnett 13.2 Information, Review, Specs

The vessel was produced during the transition period when the company was under the stewardship of Hedlund Industries in Green Lake, Wisconsin. While it shares the same high-quality fiberglass construction and minimalist hardware philosophy as its siblings, the 13.2 introduced a more sophisticated rig and a deeper cockpit, making it a "dryer" boat than the low-profile scows. It serves as the middle sibling to the smaller Butterfly and the later, larger Barnett 1400, which eventually became the flagship for Windward Boatworks, the current custodian of the Barnett legacy.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Barnett 13.2 are defined by its transition from scow-like stability to dinghy-like agility. With an overall length of 13 feet, 2 inches and a beam of approximately 4 feet, 10 inches, the boat possesses a relatively high power-to-weight ratio. Unlike the unstayed mast of the Butterfly, the 13.2 typically utilizes a stayed fractional rig. This allows for better sail shape control, particularly when beating into the wind, where the boat exhibits significantly less "pounding" than a traditional flat-decked scow.

Owners often note that the 13.2 feels more "in the water" than "on the water" compared to its smaller predecessor. The hull's displacement is distributed to allow for quick planing in moderate breezes, typically around 10–12 knots of wind. Its handling is characterized by a sensitive helm; the boat responds immediately to weight shifts, a trait that makes it an excellent trainer for those moving toward competitive racing classes. While it lacks the sheer speed of a dedicated racing scow on a reach, it tracks better in a straight line and is less prone to the "spinning" sensation that novices sometimes encounter in flat-bottomed boats during a gust.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the 13.2 does not share the massive production numbers of the Butterfly—which saw over 10,000 units built—it maintains a dedicated following within the Inland Lake Yachting Association (ILYA) regions. It is frequently mentioned in regional sailing archives as the "Max" and was marketed during the late 1970s and 1980s as the ultimate "family performance" boat. While it hasn't been the subject of major cinematic appearances, it remains a fixture in the history of Wisconsin boat building, often cited in retrospective reviews of John Barnett’s design contributions to accessible sailing.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a used Barnett 13.2 should focus on the specific structural points common to late-70s and 80s fiberglass dinghies.

1. Mast Step Reinforcement: The mast step area is a known stress point. Because the 13.2 uses a stayed rig, the downward compression on the deck or keelson is higher than on the unstayed Butterfly. Check for spiderweb cracking or soft spots around the base of the mast.
2. Hull-to-Deck Joint: Barnett boats utilized a chemically bonded and mechanically fastened hull-to-deck joint. Over decades of trailering and docking, this joint can develop small leaks, especially near the bow. Inspect the rub rail for signs of separation.
3. Centerboard Trunk Sealing: As with many boats of this era, the gasket or seal around the centerboard trunk can perish. If the boat has been left in the water for extended periods, check for osmotic blistering inside the trunk and ensure the pivot pin is secure and not leaking.
4. Hardware Backing: Original Barnett builds used simple backing plates. If the boat has been "hot-rodded" with modern high-tension cleats or blocks, ensure the fiberglass hasn't been compromised by the increased loads.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Barnett 13.2 often find technical support through the broader Barnett community. While a dedicated "13.2-only" association is rare, the National Butterfly Association remains the primary hub for Barnett enthusiasts and can often provide leads on parts and original specifications. For new parts, sails, or technical drawings, Windward Boatworks in Princeton, Wisconsin, remains the authoritative source, as they continue to support the Barnett lineage and produce the related 1400 model.

The Verdict

The Barnett 13.2 is a sophisticated, mid-sized dinghy that offers a more traditional sailing experience than a scow while retaining the simplicity and "fun factor" that John Barnett intended. It is an ideal choice for the solo sailor or a couple looking for a light, easily trailered vessel that can handle a variety of wind conditions.

Pros:

• Excellent bridge boat for sailors graduating from scows to dinghies.
• Lightweight and extremely easy to launch and recover solo.
• High-quality fiberglass construction that stands the test of time.
• More comfortable cockpit depth than the Butterfly.

Cons:

• Smaller secondary market compared to the ubiquitous 1400 or Butterfly.
• Stayed rig adds slightly more complexity to the setup time at the ramp.
• Limited one-design racing fleets compared to more popular classes.