I have a
Pearson and nothing major negative to say. Lots of little details in an older
Pearson to deal with but same with every older
boat.
On the other hand, for a smaller
boat I really prefer a
cutter rig and from all reports the
Hunter would sail well. Never been on that model so can't confirm that from personal experience but if boatman61 says it
sails well then it's a fact.
Lack of
self tailing winches wouldn't be a deal breaker for me. I've had both and think the difference, ease of use and benefits are not huge.
I would defer final decision until I checked the boat for major structural problems. Minor nicks and dings would not put me off, old
rigging is easily replace (just factor that in on the offer price) but wet or deliminated decks, bad/leaky
hull to
deck joint, rotted or separated bulkheads and such would probably kill the deal for me.