As someone who is trying to sell plans yet is a firm beleiver in the value of trying boats before you purchase/build, this is a problem for me. I would really rather people try my boats before they start building. I want people to be happy with the boat they get, and everyone is going to have a different idea on what their ideal kayak is.

However, even though people all over the world have built my designs, they are rather diffuse so it is hard for most people to get into one of my boats to build. If I am going to sell plans, I need to hope that most of my customers are willing to get the plans without ever trying the boat or I will not be able to sell many.

Instead, I urge people to try as many other boats as they can. Take a class if you have never been in a kayak before. This will give you a feel for what you like and help you make a more educated decision.

> Paul's points are all very good segments in a boat selection checklist.
> But, reading his response, I'm wondering if most potential builders of
> either S&G or strip built kayaks have ever actually paddled their chosen
> boat before they build it. Of if they've ever even paddled kayaks before.