NicK:

"An TheMightyHobie18 is a Magnum if it has the smaller (6' long) welded wings and the standard TheMightyHobie18 mast (not the taller 18SX mast). I will be looking for an all aluminum SX mast (did Hobie even make those in the States?) in the spring."

I've never heard of an all aluminum SX mast; here they're all comp-tips. The wings on the Magnum of the later boats are exactly the same as the SX; the only difference between the Magnum and the SX is the mylar sails and the longer mast.

And, I use a righting pole with a Hobie Bob on top. I'm 170 lbs and have no problem in getting my boat up by myself with little hassle.

Wyatt