Sailing Performance & Handling
The Ranger 20 is defined by its displacement-to-length ratio, which leans toward the heavier side for a boat of its size, providing a motion through the water that feels more like a 25-footer. It is not a light-air flyer; instead, it excels when the breeze freshens. Owners often report that the boat remains composed and upright long after lighter boats of similar length have been forced to reef. The fixed keel (typically drawing 3' 2") and internal ballast contribute to a high righting moment, making it a forgiving choice for novice sailors or those navigating coastal bays.
Tracking is a notable strength of the Richards hull design. The boat tends to hold its course well, reducing the constant helm corrections required on more modern, flat-bottomed designs. However, because of its weight and wetted surface area, it can be sluggish in light winds and requires a significant headsail to maintain momentum. The cockpit is deep and protective, though the high coamings that provide this security can occasionally make it difficult for shorter sailors to see over the cabin top when seated.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a 20-foot vessel, the interior of the Ranger 20 is remarkably functional, benefiting from the designer’s focus on "volume-first" architecture. The layout typically features a V-berth forward that is surprisingly spacious for two adults, flanked by a chemical head or a small locker area. Moving aft, the main cabin area includes two short settees that can double as berths for children or storage. The small galley area is usually rudimentary, often consisting of a sink and space for a portable stove, which reflects its primary use as a weekend cruiser.
Sibling models are an important part of the Ranger Fiberglass Boats lineage. While the 20 was the most prolific, Ray Richards also applied this design DNA to the Ranger 24 and the Ranger 26. These larger variants share the same "trawler-esque" sailboat aesthetic and heavy-duty layup, offering standing headroom and dedicated marine heads that the 20 lacks. The Ranger 20 itself saw minor interior variations over its production run, with later models occasionally featuring improved cabinetry and more refined teak trim.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach the Ranger 20 with a focus on structural longevity, as many of these vessels were built in the 1970s.
- Deck Core Saturation: Like many production boats of this era, the Ranger 20 uses a balsa-cored deck. Soft spots are common around the chainplates and the mast step. A thorough "tap test" with a plastic hammer is recommended to check for delamination.
- Chainplate Leakage: The external or semi-internal chainplate configurations are prone to leaking if not re-bedded every few years. Persistent leaks can lead to rot in the bulkheads where the chainplates are through-bolted.
- Rudder Bushings: Given the age of the fleet, the rudder bushings often show significant play. While not a catastrophic failure point, it can lead to a "clunking" sensation in the helm and should be inspected for wear.
- Window Seals: The large cabin windows are a signature of the Ranger 20, but the original rubber gaskets are frequently aged and prone to leaking. Many owners opt to replace these with modern acrylic panels through-bolted with marine sealant.
Community & Resources
The Ranger 20 enjoys a dedicated following, particularly in the Pacific Northwest and the Salish Sea region. The most active hub for technical data and owner collaboration is the Ranger 20 Owners Group, which maintains archives of original brochures and modification guides. While no longer in production, technical support is often found through general Raymond Richards design forums, where sailors of his larger 24 and 26 models share common maintenance solutions for the Kent-built hulls.
The Verdict
The Ranger 20 remains a premier choice for sailors who prioritize safety and "big boat" feel over raw racing speed. It is a stout, honest vessel that handles heavy weather with a grace that belies its 20-foot length.
Pros:
- Exceptional stability and heavy-weather performance for its size.
- Functional interior layout capable of genuine weekend cruising.
- Sturdy fiberglass layup and simple systems make it an ideal "DIY" project boat.
Cons:
- Heavy displacement makes it slow in light air and requires a substantial towing vehicle.
- Fixed keel limits access to very shallow anchorages and complicates ramp launching.
- Aging fleet requires careful inspection for deck rot and leaking portlights.
