ALL,
Thank you for your timely responses. I am at a big of a quandary. I either purchase...
-A used boat, keeping all the Laser Forum use boat guides in mind
-A Laser Worlds boat
-A new XD boat
I must keep in mind that I am new to Lasers, even thought I have been sailing most of my life. Saving some money would allow me to invest in other kit.
Very Respectfully,
More Cowbell
My opinion:
If you are just learning to sail and/or race, you need a boat that is sound. If it's a little soft in spots and leaks a little, that may be OK. The key is to not spend a lot of money (I would say $1500 max).
If you are an intermediate sailor, you want a boat that is relatively stiff and doesn't leak. Probably no more than ten years old. Spend maybe $2000-4000 depending on the age of the boat, overall condition, and goodies that come with it.
You don't NEED a brand-new boat unless you consistently place at the top of district-level regattas.
Myself, I bought a 2006 last year that was virtually unused. I bought it mostly for vanity, as I like having a shiny new boat.