>>Wouter, can you or anyone else keep us updated on production of the US Blade?

Of course.

>>Well I think I have made up my mind to simply buy a used H16 to start. There doesn't seem to many other types of boats around here and buying a used boat will get me to a new one faster.

I think this to be a very wise decision. New modern boats are a lot of fun but learning to sail (well) is best done on a inexpensive secondhander that can take a beating.

You probably end up with a H16 as there are so many around in the US and it has good turn-out at events. However I would advice you do a search on nacra 5.0 and nacra 500 as well. These hulls are more modern (don't have the lip) and you'll welcome that in big waves and chop. With a little luck you should be able to find one of these for about the same price as a Hobie 16. I also think that a Nacra 5.0 or 500 take the upgrade of a spinnaker better if you ever want to go that route. The nacra 5.0 or 500 could proof to be a very good lead up to the more modern boats of I-17R, FX-one and F16's.

Kind regards and fair winds to you

Wouter