Hi Gradyfish
Hey Tom:
Just to set the scenario, my last two boats, a 28' Blackfin and a 32'Topaz both had chairs. Granted, they were rarely used but because I've had three back operations it gives me comfort to know that it's there if I need it. I wear a back brace, then put on a kidney harness and a gimgle belt and I can fight, and land just about any fish. Except on one occasion I was into a large swordfish and after and hour and a half of going back and forth with the sword, he sounded and hugged the bottom. I couldn't budge him and had to pass the rod to one of my friends who evenually landed the 227 lb sword. I don't intend to ever pass the rod again.
I was trying to reach any owners of the 33 Express who have actually installed a medium sized chair that they have been able to work around comfortably. If I acquired a chair, I would keep the footrest in the cabin until needed.
BTW, the 33 Grady has a built-in backing plate installed at the factory, under the decking.
I'm going to be launching about April 15th. How about you?
Joel