The Dagger Axis 12 assumes you know how to kayak and doesn’t pull any punches in that regard. It’s fantastic for still water and even level 2 rapids. But be forewarned that this is not a beginner kayak and should be avoided if you are a beginner. Go check out our best kayak list to see which kayak would be right for you!
Why We Like It – Dagger Axis 12
The Dagger Axis 12 is great for continuing your kayaking journey from beginner to intermediate. The Dagger Axis 12 implements great features that help you get the most out of the kayak, and the added safety features give you comfort in knowing you’ll still be okay out on the water.
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- Height-Adjustable drop skeg
- Spacious cockpit
- Handles well
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- No thigh braces
- Doesn’t support fishing or white water rafting
- Expensive
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Performance
The Dagger Axis 12 provides a height-adjustable drop skeg for its kayakers. This gives it excellent tracking and keeps it moving straight. The Dagger Axis 12 can be used on flat water or lakes or perhaps even some class 2 moving water rapids and still handles like a dream. It doesn’t have thigh braces, though, so it can be a little difficult to edge the boat. Consider the Perception Sound 9.5 Kayak If you’re looking for a water kayak that’s a little more stable and features a tri-keel hull design.
Design
The cockpit size on the Dagger Axis 12 is actually a quite spacious 38”x21” which makes it ideal for both smaller and larger kayakers alike. Despite the roomy cockpit the Dagger Axis 12 is still only a one-seater kayak so take a look at the BKC TK219 Tandem Kayak if you’d like to kayak with a friend or loved one. The maximum weight capacity on the Dagger Axis 12 is a generous 350 pounds so virtually anyone can jump into the kayak and start having fun on the water.
Value
The Dagger Axis 12 comes with some nifty features such as a stern hatch, stern bulkhead, and paddle park. This isn’t a white water kayak though, nor is it a fishing kayak either. Try the Sun Dolphin Excursion 10 Kayak if fishing is your niche. The Dagger Axis 12 retails for an immense price of $979.00. But remember, this isn’t a beginner kayak. If you want the best, you’ll have to pay for the best, and the Dagger Axis 12 is one of the best intermediate-level kayaks out there.
Dagger Axis 12 Wrap Up
The Dagger Axis 12 is an expensive kayak, but if you want top-shelf quality you’re going to have to pay top-shelf prices. It handles like a dream, though, and the cockpit is spacious so as to provide that extra bit of comfort. If you do shell out the money, you won’t be disappointed.
