Mustang 22 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Mustang 22 is defined by its stiffness and surprising "big boat" feel, a direct result of its high ballast-to-displacement ratio. With roughly 1,100 pounds of lead encapsulated in its fiberglass bulb keel—accounting for nearly 45% of the boat's total 2,400-pound displacement—the vessel remains remarkably upright even when pressed in heavy air. This configuration allows it to carry a generous sail plan longer than most 22-footers before needing to reef.

On the water, the Mustang 22 exhibits the tracking characteristics of a larger keelboat while retaining the nimbleness required for tactical fleet racing. The Martin Bludworth hull design features a relatively flat exit aft, which helps the boat reach plane-like speeds when pushed off the wind under a spinnaker. Owners often report that the boat "punches above its weight class" in offshore chop, a sentiment echoed in historical racing records from the Texas Sailing Association, which noted the PT-22’s dominance in regional handicap racing during the early 1970s. While it lacks the ultimate light-wind ghosting ability of modern ultra-light sportboats, its momentum and stability make it a formidable contender in coastal breezes.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a boat designed with a primary focus on the racecourse, the Mustang 22 offers a surprisingly functional, albeit utilitarian, interior. The cabin is arranged in a classic "pocket cruiser" layout, featuring a V-berth forward and two long quarter berths that extend aft under the cockpit seats. Because the boat was built using hand-laid fiberglass with a focus on structural integrity, the interior lacks the heavy teak joinery found in more cruising-oriented vessels of the era, resulting in a clean, if Spartan, aesthetic.

There are no known major structural variations in the hull itself, but the interior "modules" often differed based on whether the boat was marketed as the PT-22 (the racing-focused variant) or the Mustang 22 (the consumer-facing model). Some units were outfitted with a small sliding galley tray or a dedicated space for a portable chemical toilet under the V-berth. Headroom is limited, as is common for boats of this length, requiring a "seated" lifestyle once below decks. However, the use of large side portlights provides better natural light than many other 1960s-era racers, reducing the "cave-like" feel often associated with early fiberglass designs.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Mustang 22 should focus their inspection on the unique structural elements that set this boat apart, particularly the keel-to-hull joint.

• Keel Bulb Integrity: Since the lead ballast is encapsulated within a fiberglass shell, any "hard grounding" can breach the laminate. If water enters the keel, it can lead to freeze-thaw damage or oxidation of the lead/filler mix. Inspect the bulb for any weeping or "smiles" at the hull joint.
• Deck Core Delamination: Like many boats from the Plastrend era, the Mustang 22 utilized a balsa-cored deck to save weight. Over five decades, moisture can penetrate through inadequately bedded deck hardware, leading to soft spots. Pay close attention to the areas around the chainplates and the mast step.
• Rudder Bushings: The spade rudder is high-aspect and subject to significant loads. Excess play in the tiller often indicates worn bushings or a bent rudder post, which can compromise the boat's otherwise sharp handling.
• Chainplate Reinforcement: Given the boat’s high stability, the rig is often subjected to higher loads than a typical 22-footer. Check the bulkhead attachments for the chainplates for signs of wood rot or fiberglass crazing.

Community & Resources

The Mustang 22 enjoys a cult following, particularly in the Gulf Coast region. Owners and researchers frequently exchange technical data through the Plastrend and PT-Boat archives maintained by vintage racing enthusiasts. While there is no longer a dedicated factory support system, the Martin Bludworth design legacy is well-documented within the Texas sailing community, and many parts are cross-compatible with other "PT" series boats produced by Composite Technologies and Island Yacht Corp.

The Verdict

The Mustang 22 is a rugged, historical performer that offers a unique entry point into vintage racing. It is an ideal choice for a sailor who prioritizes stability and windward performance over interior luxury.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability due to the innovative bulb keel design.
• Robust hand-laid fiberglass construction capable of handling heavy weather.
• Significant historical pedigree as a pioneer of the Quarter Ton class.
• Predictable, stiff handling that builds confidence for solo sailors or small crews.

Cons:

• Spartan interior with limited amenities for extended cruising.
• Potential for core issues in the deck and keel if not properly maintained.
• Relatively heavy for its size, making it more difficult to trailer-launch than modern swing-keel designs.