Thread: 2 + 2 vs 2003

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  1. #1
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    2 + 2 vs 2003

    Currently own a gambler 2100. Absolutely love the boat, however priorities are changing with a large family, so I知 looking at getting into something more conducive for where I知 at in my life. Likely will still fish some smaller tournaments out of it, however days of big derbies in my boat aren稚 in the near future. I知 ignorant to the Allison world outside of an XB-21, however for what I知 looking to do I think an Allison is in my future. Need a boat that I can still go fast, fish tournaments, but be able to take family out to enjoy the river and fish as well.

    What are the biggest differences between a 2 + 2 and a 2003? Anyone with pics of storage/front deck of both or either?
    2002 gambler 2100
    2008 250 proxs

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    #2
    I've had both. XB21 2+2 hands down is the better choice. It's wider, more stable, far better storage (both rod and tackle), can handle the weight of current model engines, etc. The only areas in which the 2003 is superior is wind protection and slightly better fuel economy. Some have used 3 liter engines on the 2003 with success, but the 2.5 mercs are getting long in the tooth. I loved my 2003 to death, until I got the 2+2. Now the XB21 prosport is basically a larger version of the 2003 and would have the advantages of the 2+2 hull. However, the rod and tackle storage issues its has would steer me to the 2+2.

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    #3
    I’ve owned several 2003s and my son has one now with a 225 Pro XS Optimax. I also own a XB21 BasSport Pro (2 seater) which is my 2nd XB21 2 seater.

    I can’t comment on the XB21 2+2 from personal ownership but they are a great boat for what you are looking for although the 21 Pro Sport might be even better.

    I can tell you that my son’s 2003 with the 3.0 Optimax runs and handles extremely well. I can’t say enough good things about it. It has incredible MPG and handles like a dream with a SM gear case. All of my previous 2003s had 2.5s on them and they were good but I’d choose the 3.0 any day.

    The 21 Pro Sport is basically a bigger version of the 2003. I don’t think you’ll go wrong with either but if the 21’ is just more boat at the end of the day.
    2024 Xpress X21 / Yamaha 250 SHO
    2022 Allison XB-21 BasSport Pro Elite / 2022 Mercury 300R (Sold)

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    #4
    Quote Originally Posted by JOEALLY View Post
    I’ve owned several 2003s and my son has one now with a 225 Pro XS Optimax. I also own a XB21 BasSport Pro (2 seater) which is my 2nd XB21 2 seater.

    I can’t comment on the XB21 2+2 from personal ownership but they are a great boat for what you are looking for although the 21 Pro Sport might be even better.

    I can tell you that my son’s 2003 with the 3.0 Optimax runs and handles extremely well. I can’t say enough good things about it. It has incredible MPG and handles like a dream with a SM gear case. All of my previous 2003s had 2.5s on them and they were good but I’d choose the 3.0 any day.

    The 21 Pro Sport is basically a bigger version of the 2003. I don’t think you’ll go wrong with either but if the 21’ is just more boat at the end of the day.
    How was the room in the 2003? I’ve heard the back seat is crammed? 3 kids in backseat too tight?
    2002 gambler 2100
    2008 250 proxs

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    #5
    The XB2003 and the XB21 ProSport are both fantastic hulls. While they look much the same separate, side by side they are quite different. With the XB21 having more room. Sitting still in the water, the XB21 is more stable than the 2003. The extra width of the 21 helps with that.

    The XB21 2+2 is a great layout as well. With the dual consoles and pass through center it seems a touch more roomy. The center pass through up front makes it easier to access the front deck. The wind protection in the ProSport is much better. Not that the 2+2 is terrible. Which can be a good and bad thing...On chilly fall or winter days it's a great. Yet when it's sweltering hot the extra breeze coming in between the consoles on the 2+2 is refreshing.

    The biggest difference is the ride and stability. While the XB2003 handles rough water very well. The XB21 is absolutely awesome in rough water! I love a 2003, but the XB21 amazes me every time we are on the water. You wouldn't think one foot would make such a difference...but it does! The XB21 just seems a lot more solid and stable. Darris Allison truly designed a work of art in the XB21 hull!

    XB21 vs XB03 a.jpegXB21 vs XB03.jpeg
    Last edited by Alli71; 08-15-2022 at 03:07 AM.

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    #6
    seems like a 2+2 is what will work best for me. Most of the ones I see have buckets in rear. I know a bench was/is an option from Allison. Are you able to convert the bucket rear to bench? Is the trash/potty removable to do so?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alli71 View Post
    The XB2003 and the XB21 ProSport are both fantastic hulls. While they look much the same separate, side by side they are quite different. With the XB21 having more room. Sitting still in the water, the XB21 is more stable than the 2003. The extra width of the 21 helps with that.

    The XB21 2+2 is a great layout as well. With the dual consoles and pass through center it seems a touch more roomy. The center pass through up front makes it easier to access the front deck. The wind protection in the ProSport is much better. Not that the 2+2 is terrible. Which can be a good and bad thing...On chilly fall or winter days it's a great. Yet when it's sweltering hot the extra breeze coming in between the consoles on the 2+2 is refreshing.

    The biggest difference is the ride and stability. While the XB2003 handles rough water very well. The XB21 is absolutely awesome in rough water! I love a 2003, but the XB21 amazes me every time we are on the water. You wouldn't think one foot would make such a difference...but it does! The XB21 just seems a lot more solid and stable. Darris Allison truly designed a work of art in the XB21 hull!

    XB21 vs XB03 a.jpegXB21 vs XB03.jpeg
    2002 gambler 2100
    2008 250 proxs

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    #7
    Quote Originally Posted by JF1 View Post
    How was the room in the 2003? I’ve heard the back seat is crammed? 3 kids in backseat too tight?

    We have had two grown adults in the back bench seat multiple times without issues. Again, if you can afford it, go for the 21' but if not, the XB2003 is a great boat.
    2024 Xpress X21 / Yamaha 250 SHO
    2022 Allison XB-21 BasSport Pro Elite / 2022 Mercury 300R (Sold)

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    #8
    Quote Originally Posted by JF1 View Post
    seems like a 2+2 is what will work best for me. Most of the ones I see have buckets in rear. I know a bench was/is an option from Allison. Are you able to convert the bucket rear to bench? Is the trash/potty removable to do so?
    Shoot me PM with your cell number and I will text you some pics of my old 2+2 that I custom did a center seat/step that worked as a bench for 3 kids.
    John Wolff
    2003 Allison XB21 2+2
    2003 Mercury 250xs

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    #9
    Quote Originally Posted by Jwolff View Post
    Shoot me PM with your cell number and I will text you some pics of my old 2+2 that I custom did a center seat/step that worked as a bench for 3 kids.

    PM sent
    2002 gambler 2100
    2008 250 proxs

  10. Member draketm's Avatar
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    #10
    I love my 2003 and i fish small tournaments aswell with no issue. That being said the 2+2 i believe is better by far for the tournament side of what youre wanting.
    97 Allison XB2003/ 250 Proxs