Hi Newbie; The last thing to worry about is weight. It is easy to get caught up in the statistics when you attack a new endeavor. I built a stitch & glue that wound up about 10 lb heavier than advertised (same manufacturer too). If you are planning to enter the Olympics it might be important. If I would lift weights three times a week it would make more of an improvement in the kayak performance than having it 5 lb lighter. Learn to build the boat, learn to paddle it, and then worry about making a Ferrari. I am still learing to do things with my barge and it is perfectly suitable to my needs. Once I master the basics, I will worry about weight. Have fun building. Jeff