I'm looking to purchase my first Ranger 2012-15 year- 520 OR 521 , please advise pro/cons if you own either one.

Con's - They are not the fastest boat
Rumor has it Johnny Morris will not keep the spare parts on the shelves as long as they have in the past

Pro's - One of the best fishing platforms as in stable and roomy deck
You normally don't ever have to replace anything on them as they are built to last
Trailers are also well built and will last forever - Just go ahead and buy you a couple of the spare hub assemblies - they are really cheap direct from Ranger, I've owned a Ranger since 1997 and the only thing I've ever had trouble with is I've had tow bearings go out.

Con's: Parts are a premium from Ranger. The trailer uses the torsion / sealed bearings, these fail around every 5 years or so. Be ready to replace them soon. Not a speedy boat, but that is made up in the Pros.

Pros: Can keep up with the best of them. They are very stable and have a massive fishing deck both front & back. Resell value is one of the highest and retains the best. Built to withstand time.

I've been around Ranger boats for about 10 years now, I was originally in an older Nitro while my friends all drove Rangers. I kept getting more and more impressed each time I went out with them and decided it was my next boat when time came. I floundered between Ranger and Phoenix and ultimately decided Ranger fit my needs.

I just purchased a 2019 520l and am very happy with it so far. Just fished in two times so far. It rides like a dream and is as stable on the water as you can get IMHO. The Mercury 250 sounds like a nascar engine when you crank it up. I’ve been fishing out of my Dad’s 1989 Ranger 320 since it was brand new and we never had any issues with it other than general maintenance. I still have it and will be selling it real soon. I think Ranger is the best IMO.

I'd be looking for a Bullet

Nah! ... I'd be looking at a Ballistic

Allways wanted a Ranger. Bought a 2014 Z521C Ranger Cup edition last year. Would absolutely do it again. Best I have ever fished out of.

I tested a Skeeter and Ranger in rough and smooth water. I don't think there is a boat that rides as well as the Ranger.

Pros:
Best ride out there
Great storage
Great in rough water
Easily get to 70 MPH
Storage lids have soft close
Compartments seal well, no water
Fans actually dry out the compartments
Best resale value
Wide console for 15" Solix

Cons:
Bearings on trailer
Not the fastest boat on the water
You have to respond to everyone who says how awesome your boat is......

Honestly, I have no issues whatsoever. I've had a few parts that needed to be replaced and they were ordered and installed within 2 days. Their warranty coverage is incredible and I haven't spent a dollar outside of the warranty. I'm sure I paid for this on the purchase price......but they have been great to deal with. That Skeeter Apex is pretty cool too, but they porpoise at low speed and are pretty tough in 4-6 ft rollers.

pros...you won't have to try to convince anyone your boat is as good as a Ranger anymore....
cons.....it's irritating fishing around docks in the summertime due to all those groupies in bikinis begging you to take them for a ride in your beautiful boat...

actually been a Ranger owner since 1996 and they are awesome fishing platform in every respect....

What's so funny?

when we decided to get our first new boat the wife insisted on a Ranger....get what you want but why not get the best the first time, ?
and when you sell it or trade it , it will still have some value. Yes honey.

What a wonderful problem to have

pro - it is a Ranger
con - it is a Ranger

That's a good girl right there!