On Thu, 13 May 2004 14:04:30 GMT, Brian Nystrom
vaguely proposed a theory
.......and in reply I say!:
uncap my header address to reply via email

I agree with the fact that the end product is far more important than
ease of building, especially as stitch and glue is only minimally
woodworking. Bt I know that there are some kits that are lot tougher
than others.

I also agree with the possibility of someone growing out of a boat.
But there are many who do not. I have tried narrow boats, and although
I have done quite a bit of kayaking, includiung sea (although not
much), I still prefer a more comfortable, stable craft over that extra
1/4 knot. I feel that the gains of narrowness are often overcome by
the need to be more alert all the time against "tippiness", unless you
do a lot of paddling.

I admit I am not a "serious" kayaker, in that I'm not out there every
weekend going miles. I also have a big rear end! G. Seriously, I
cannot fit into some of the narrower cockpits.

Sorry to "talk behind your back" Pagaie G.

I think that on this topic, you should try a few boats of different
styles, widths etc first, maybe at a local club, or some other
organisation, even if it means hiring.

Are you sure you want to build? I firmly believe that bulding a kayak
should be done _only_ because you want to _build_ a kayak. If you want
a kayak, buy one secondhand. You may pay a couple of hundred more,
but....

....If you build a kayak, I doubt you will be able to sell it for much,
even if it's well built. You will certainly not get paid for your
time. So if you get the wrong type, you've lost the whole effort.

You should also look at the kits offered by Newfound woodworks. They use
"puzzle lock" joints that eliminate the possibility of panel
misalignments that can occur with butt and scarf joint. The Shearwater
kits should be the same, as Newfound makes the panels for them.

Another important consideration is the end product. The Waters Dancing,
Pygmy and most CLC kits are for "beginner boats" that you'll likely grow
out of in a hurry. Shearwater and Newfound offer kits for higher
performance boats (Merganser, S&G Night Heron, etc.) that may serve you
better in the longrun.


Pagaie wrote:

Hi there,
I want to build my own kayak and have no real skill in woodworking. So
I need some information (based on your experience) on what kit is the
easiest to build.
I have selected the following kit providers :
Chesapeake Light Craft
Pygmy
Shearwater
Water Dancing

Thanks

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