Forum Discussion

Colorado_fiver's avatar
Colorado_fiver
Explorer
Aug 27, 2013

The Chosen One

Hello all, I am very new to the whole "blogging" thing and even newer to RVing. I have been looking for 5W's for quite some time and have narrowed my selection down to three manufactures and five models due to floor plan, constructability, function and yes looks. The following are not in order of preference and would appreciate any information from those who own or have researched them. Drum role please: Palomino Columbus 320RL or 365RL -- Open Range Residential 398RLS -- Forest River Cardinal 3030RS or 3550RL. Yes, these are fairly large and slightly more than I can afford but will possibly be using "The Chosen One" for months on end the first year due to house construction and then quite often in years thereafter. I am comfortable spending a little more for something that will last for many years and for something I can get a lot of enjoyment out of. Your input, ideas and insight will be greatly appreciated.

5 Replies

  • B_Sjulestad's avatar
    B_Sjulestad
    Explorer II
    Aug 28, 2013
    My sister and brother in law just bought a 2013 cardinal 3450RL and its great looking rig. However she wished it had the bedroom space of our Cedar Creek.
  • ol_Bombero-JC's avatar
    ol_Bombero-JC
    Explorer
    Aug 28, 2013
    thomasmnile wrote:


    Don't know anything about the specific models, but you're off to a good start because you've identified a floorplan/model that appeals to you. Way better than flying blind. You could join the respective brands owners' forums (if they have one) and post your questions as well as seeking input here. Won't cost anything and you'll get some first hand owner feedback. Happy hunting!


    Also -

    Use the search feature here - with each of your brand choices as the "key word".
    Do the same in the archives (threads and posts over 12 months old).

    ~
  • amxpress's avatar
    amxpress
    Explorer
    Aug 28, 2013
    Good question. I have a Columbus 320RS and for the money, you can't beat it. It has a lot of standard features that really appealed to me. 100" wide, welded 6 sided aluminum frame, microwave/convection oven AND a gas oven just to mention a few. I looked at their 365RL, but it's a little too much for my RAM 2500. I suggest checking out the Columbus Facebook page.about 200 people on there who can offer their opinion.
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/379970242092901/
    I also checked out the Open Range, but didn't like the interior colors. It didn't seem up to the level the Columbus is.
    As for the Cardinal, a very good rig, but you're going to need a 1 Ton for that one, too. There is a Forest River Owner's Forum that might help you:
    http://www.forestriverforums.com/forums/
  • Alley_Fox's avatar
    Alley_Fox
    Explorer
    Aug 28, 2013
    Regardless of what you end up choosing, do your homework thoroughly. The internet provides a wealth of info on reliability and quality. I spent many, many months researching and joining brand forums to get the good and bad on candidates on my "short list". We are extremely happy with our final selection, especially after hearing about horror stories on some of the brands we had first considered.
  • thomasmnile's avatar
    thomasmnile
    Explorer
    Aug 27, 2013
    Colorado fiver wrote:
    Hello all, I am very new to the whole "blogging" thing and even newer to RVing. I have been looking for 5W's for quite some time and have narrowed my selection down to three manufactures and five models due to floor plan, constructability, function and yes looks. The following are not in order of preference and would appreciate any information from those who own or have researched them. Drum role please: Palomino Columbus 320RL or 365RL -- Open Range Residential 398RLS -- Forest River Cardinal 3030RS or 3550RL. Yes, these are fairly large and slightly more than I can afford but will possibly be using "The Chosen One" for months on end the first year due to house construction and then quite often in years thereafter. I am comfortable spending a little more for something that will last for many years and for something I can get a lot of enjoyment out of. Your input, ideas and insight will be greatly appreciated.


    Don't know anything about the specific models, but you're off to a good start because you've identified a floorplan/model that appeals to you. Way better than flying blind. You could join the respective brands owners' forums (if they have one) and post your questions as well as seeking input here. Won't cost anything and you'll get some first hand owner feedback. Happy hunting!

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