> I am looking to purchase a full kayak kit and am having trouble finding
> objective comparisons between the various companies. Does anyone know
> where I can find reveiws of these. If it matters, I am most interested in
> Pygmy Boats' kits vs. Chesapeake Light Craft.Thanks

The two companies each have many loyal and extremely vocal supporters. They are fiercely competitive. Assume they both provide adequate kits and customer support, then pick the design that suits your size and weight (you will never like a boat that you have to diet to get into) and is appropriate for your needs: Touring, racing, camping, etc.

If you have questions about features, call the companies directly, or send them e-mail. Since you are doing the building, remember that you can make an unlimited number of modifications to suit your personal taste and style. If you express a desire to modify things (let's say a higher deck for your bigger-than-average feet) either company will work with you -- or you can get advice on this board from people who have ``been there and done that''

So, get out your calculator and best of luck on your decision. Remember, the sooner you pick a kit the sooner you can build it and get on the water. Also, after building one, you may get ``the bug'' and want to build another. Then you can build your second choice. There is no sin in owning both a CLC AND a Pygmy boat -- just a little extra cost.

Paul Jacobson