1940 Chris-Craft 19 Runabout “Barrel Back” – 30" Wooden Boat Model

The 1940 Chris-Craft 19' Custom Runabout “Barrel Back” is a classic example of pre-war American wooden boat design. Famous for its distinctive rounded stern, graceful lines, and elegant mahogany appearance, the Barrel Back captures the refined styling of the golden age of wooden pleasure boats.

This 30-inch custom-made replica is handcrafted to order using premium Western Red Cedar, Teak, Mahogany, and selected exotic hardwoods. Built with traditional plank-on-frame construction, the model recreates the signature barrel-shaped transom, streamlined deck, cockpit configuration, and detailed hardware of the original design.

Each model requires approximately 4–5 months to complete, depending on the selected specifications and finish.

Handcrafted to Order

Every model is carefully built by skilled craftsmen with close attention to proportions, materials, and finishing details. Throughout production, customers receive photo updates at key stages, providing an opportunity to review and approve the work before the next stage begins.

Major production stages include:

• Hull construction and wooden planking
• Deck and cockpit detailing
• Structural and hardware detailing
• Painting and varnishing
• Final finishing and quality inspection

After final approval, the completed model is carefully packed in a custom wooden crate with reinforced cushioning for secure worldwide shipping.

History of the Chris-Craft Barrel Back

Introduced in the late 1930s, the Chris-Craft Barrel Back Runabout became a recognizable design of the pre-war American pleasure-boat era. Its rounded transom, which inspired the “Barrel Back” nickname, gave the boat a distinctive continuous profile and elegant appearance.

The 19-foot version offered balanced proportions and a practical cockpit layout, making it well suited to recreational boating on inland waterways. Its combination of polished wood, streamlined styling, and carefully finished details reflected the craftsmanship associated with classic Chris-Craft runabouts.

As World War II shifted manufacturing priorities, production of many recreational wooden boats was affected, contributing to the rarity of surviving examples today. The 1940 19' Barrel Back remains a notable representation of American wooden boatbuilding from this period.

Product Specifications

• Model Length: 30 inches
• Original Boat Length: 19 feet
• Construction: Traditional plank-on-frame
• Materials: Western Red Cedar, Teak, Mahogany, and selected exotic hardwoods
• Build Time: Approximately 4–5 months
• Production: Custom-made to order
• Shipping: Custom wooden crate with reinforced cushioning

Contact us to discuss your custom Chris-Craft Barrel Back model, including materials, finishes, detailing, and production requirements.