Backyard Renegade ) writes:

Or even cheaper with ring nails and chine logs

I read that Harold Payson uses ring nails on his "instant" boats but I
don't like them for the following reasons...

1. they can't be extracted. I like to do a dry fit before applying
adhesive. I can fit the pieces together with screws, then take them apart
and put them together again with glue. I use inexpensive materials but I
am particular when it comes to fit. I think dry fitting is a good practice
for inexperienced boat builders. Sometimes after I've been using the boat
for some time I find reason to remove some of the fastenings to make
modifications or repairs.

2. I can't find ring nails locally. They are not a Home Depot item. All I
see are the flooring nails which are over and inch long. I use 3/4" #8
zinc plated screws of which there is a cheap supply ($3 / lb) locally. I
might try hot dipped spiral nails if they came small enough. They could be
driven part way in for a dry fit and extracted. I've used long ones on
repairs to hardwook flooring. I don't want to go to the trouble of buying
materials mail order, waiting for delivery, and paying postage. I crave
instant gratificaton, can't stand the suspense.

3. The books I've read all say to drill holes before pounding ring nails
into your boat. They don't save drilling holes, but would save
countersinking.

4. Harold Payson is an expert who never makes a mistake. I only wish I were.


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