I built mine without. I haven't had much wear in that area. I do have quite a bit of wear on the chines and keel.

I decked my boat and then glassed the hull. The glass extends to the top surface of the deck, so the edge of the plywood is protected.

I don't like the look of plywood edge grain, so I didn't round over the deck. Some people do like that look, though.

Shawn

> I am building a 17' Chesapeake Kit. I am not sure about the need for rub
> rails. Any opinions out there? What kind of material should I use if I go
> with them?

> Thanks
> Jim