Looking to buy a new Ranger. Was wondering about the difference in the 520 to the 521. I know the 521 will ride smoother but it also runs flatter which seems to me means it might be a bit nose heavy. I know the 520 will be faster but that is not a big deal to me. I don't drive it fast anyway. My wife and I fish mostly for fun but may fish a couples tourney ever now and again. Does running flatter equate to less fuel milage. It would seem so to me. If so is it negligable? Anyone that has owned both I would appreciate some imput. Thanks

Z520 vs Z521
from Tom Reddington:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mSFlXeoxKU

10" longer, 1" wider...a few pounds more...really not going to make a noticeable difference unless you put 250's on both...either way the best fishing platform going ! Just my two cents...

I'm a 520 guy, I want the fastest boat. There is plenty of room and it might be 1% more maneuverable in tight spots than 521. However, I've had back problems this year and certainly makes me think about a 521 or 522 more. I have fun going 74, but 99.9% I'm going 65-68.

great video, interesting point by Tom that the 520 is better for big waves than 521 because it keeps nose up more. 521 might be softer through chop, but to me the #1 thing you are avoiding is punching a wave.

Most important factor is the distance between the crest of the waves. Smaller boats will travel over short wavelengths fine, but when the distance between the waves becomes larger then a longer boat is best because you want the nose to land on top of the crest to minimize water coming over the bow. I would always prefer a dry stable ride over a fast ride. Go with the 521.

I know where there is a sharp 2014 520 C loaded for sale worth the money and about 100 hrs. If anyone is interested give me a call 903-348-3533 C I can get you pointed in the right direction.

I like the 521 C and have no complaints. I have been in both in rough water and I like the 521 better but everyone has their own opinion. Those extra few inches in a 521 help reach the other wave before going through it with a shorter boat. Helps keep you on top and dry ! IMO

520 is faster and smoother in big waves in my opinion. More efficient enough to move around in amongst timber.

521 is bigger, heavier, and more room for clients to fish on front deck.

just my .02

im a 520 guy

I'm not buying that a 520 handles big waves better. Experience a 30mph North wind at Falcon when you are way down south and tell me you would feel safer in a 20ft ride.

It's true! Been in both

I have been in 521s numerous times, they were pretty smooth, I have a 520 and I guess I need to work on my driving cause there is some bounce going on for sure. The jewels are taking a beating .

the 521 bow will not lift like the 520 therefore making it run more flat and with 30 mph winds you want a little lift i have had both boats and by far like the 520 better.

That's what the trim button is for.

trim all you want it will not lift the bow like a 520. lol

Dont need to. Less chance of capsizing.