We have a couple boats in our shop that we have added graphite and epoxy below the water line. The resistance to abrasion does seem to be better, but only marginally so. An outfitter here in Port Townsend uses our doubles and is convinced that it helps the wear on his boats. By masking the water line and covering the area below, you do achive a nice look if nothing else.

Dave Grimmer Pygmy Boats Inc

Hi Jack, Actually the strength of the epoxy is reduced only in that it
> will not bond as well. So don't use graphite as a bonding filler, but what
> would you bond to the outside of your hull anyway. It does seem to make
> the epoxy harder and more scratch resistant. I'm told that it reduces
> friction, but we have no way to measure this, at least not until the tow
> tank is completed ;-). Still, if you think it makes you go faster... What
> I do want to know is if you tried that MAS/Dupont Teflon powder I gave you
> last time you came by the shop. I wonder how it works, but I'm sure not
> going to try it first ;-)

> Chris, Chesapeake Light Craft