Older Bockmann or newer Bateson/Ifor?

[winglesscreature]

Looking to buy my first trailer and would love opinions on whether it's better to get an older Bockmann model or a newer IW (511) or Bateman (Ascot) for my mare?
It's hurting my brain

 

[Trot_on]

I don't think you can get better than a Bockmann so long as it's been well looked after, but I've heard they're like hens teeth to get hold of second hand.

I have a Bateson and love it - much prefer it to Ifors x

 

[lialls]

I also prefer the Bateson to the Ifors, I've had one previously and would have another Bateson again. They are fairly light, could move it to hitch up by hand and they don't rattle like an Ifor. Compact to tow and towed nicely. Have used friends Ifors on occasions and they always been to be loud/rattley, everything seems to seize up or come lose on them and they weather badly.

 

[Dust Bunny]

I'd go for the Böckmann, too. Depending on how old it is and how it's been looked after of course. They are good quality, spacious and well-thought through. As someone mentioned, they don't rattle and shake!

 

[phizz4]

Looking to buy my first trailer and would love opinions on whether it's better to get an older Bockmann model or a newer IW (511) or Bateman (Ascot) for my mare?
It's hurting my brain

Definitely Bockmann, based on experience of Bateson, Ifor and Bockmann. Be aware that most Bockmann models are rear load/unload. They do make a front unload but they aren't common in the UK. There are several dealers in The Netherlands who sell used Bockmanns and it may work out financially worthwhile driving over and collecting one. The rear load/unload version is all composite/fibreglass, is very strong and rattle free. They are also very light inside. The front unload versions are more of a modular build.
The older Bockmanns had a composite floor rather than aluminium but the rUbber matting is totally sealed so check that it hasn't failed. The aluminium ones are sealed as well so hosing out is a breeze. As you might guess, we are converts and have never had problems backing the horses out. The Bockmann suppliers are here:

Bockmann Suppliers UK | My Site 2

www.trailersandhorseboxes.com

 

[OldNag]

Bateson all the way

 

[awelshandawarmblood]

Be very careful with Bockmann if you have a bigger horse, they size up small. I was sold a big Champion R by a dealership & my 16.2 in 6ft9 rugs who I was assured would have plenty of room, and he was sandwiched in! Couldn't fault it quality wise but the size was an issue. I went and got a HBX511 in the end which was fantastic.

 

[phizz4]

You will find that the Boeckmann Big Master interior height is higher by 40mm and width is lower by 40mm, so about an inch and a half difference in old money.

Internal dimensions
Interior length

3900 mm
Interior width

1750 mm
Interior height

2300 mm
Boeckmann Big Master.

Ifor Williams HBX511

Length 11' 7" 3.52 Internal Height 7' 5" 2.26 Internal Width 5' 11" 1.79

 

[maya2008]

Ifors are very common - which means easy to service and get parts etc. They also get stolen a lot.

 

[ImmyS]

I had a Böckmann comfort I think it was around 2008 but cleaned up like new and in fantastic condition, paid around 2k for it around 7 years ago and sold for the same money a few years later. Such a lovely trailer to tow and so light and airy, I would definitely have another if I was looking.

 

[Debsflo1]

Love my Bateson, light ,airy and horses travel well.

 

[winglesscreature]

Thank you all so much for your help and advice. I really appreciate it! I decided to go for the Bockmann, very excited!