The Action Craft 1710 HB FlyFisher 2013 vs Action Craft 1720 2005 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Action Craft 1710 HB FlyFisher 2013 at 17,8 ft versus Action Craft 1720 2005 at 17,0 ft. At 65 lbs and 62 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 125 hp, the Action Craft 1720 2005 has a 35-hp advantage over the Action Craft 1710 HB FlyFisher 2013's 90-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Action Craft 1710 HB FlyFisher 2013 carries 23 gallons versus 3 gallons in the Action Craft 1720 2005. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 5 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Action Craft 1720 2005 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 1 lbs per hp for the Action Craft 1710 HB FlyFisher 2013. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
Bottom line: Performance buyers should lean toward the Action Craft 1720 2005 and its 125-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Action Craft 1710 HB FlyFisher 2013 with its 90-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.