Alex Horvath wrote:
Is there anything that compares to a NDK design wise? The skeg, day
hatch, compass, pump, reccessed fittings are very useful features. I
was planning on buying an NDK this summer.

Skegs, day hatches and recessed deck fitting are standard features on
most sea kayaks. Compasses are optional on many other boats, as they are
on NDKs. Foot or deck pumps are not as common, but few people feel they
need them. I had a deck pump in a Nordkapp and never found it all that
useful, especially for the weight penatly involved. I'm contemplating
installing a foot pump in the only boat I own with enough footroom for
it to work, but I haven't decided yet.

I should probably ask my
retailer (he only sells NDK) if he will correct any defects upon
delivery.

Don't ask, insist on it. Better yet, insist on a defect free boat.