Flown all three, two versions of N2, both spans of 17 but not the DB
mod.
The Nimbus 2C and AS-W17 (ours was a B, but I bet they'll both
handle like a 20) are easier to handle than the Open Jantar 2. With
the older Nimbus 2s, you should make sure you're well forward CG on
early flights. My first launch was "interesting", second flight was
great... with 50 pounds of lead in the seat! The C or N3 with a fixed
horizontal stab, the CG thing isn't as bad. Have flown Nimbus 3 at
109% aft, still easy to fly.
The N2 is the only one with a civilized canopy as a factory install.
The 17 and Jantar were made with removable canopies.
If it's a 17B, descents with full (dual surface) spoilers and the
drag chute are cool. And if you have the home brew tips it can be
flown at 15m span with super high wing loading! What a racer! I regret
never doing a 15m drag chute landing.
The 15 and 17 have balsa spars and the 15 had a Tech Note on mold.
We checked our 17 for mold and found none. It felt awful to drill
holes in the spar, but reassuring afterwards.
Any of these gliders are much easier to rig with a solo rigging
tool. Several Jantars in the USA have Minden Fab trailers with their
rigging kit.
Jim