Teri, You could plan a trip up to NH in May and I will take you out on mine, let you drive to get a feel for the Ranger Reata. It handles better then any other boat I have been onI think the hydro power steering really make a big difference. Once you do, you must beware it tends to give you the "I gotta have it" syndrome. I was looking at the layout of the new 1850 and like it alot, the only thing I would n't want is the baitwell, otherwise it's a nice setup. Looks like they went all out on creating storage and making the rod lockers big enough to hold a 7' rod.
Cass