There seems to be a lot of rivalry among the major kayak kit suppliers and for a newcomer it is difficult to sort through the information. For example, one major supplier recommends scarf joints, the other disagrees, one uses cambered multi-paneled decks, the other not. Unfortunately, there is no way for me to try out the various models before purchase, so I feel as if I am guessing before spending a substantial amount of money on a kit for my husband's birthday. Our kayaking involves launching from pebbly/sandy beach into light surf on Long Island Sound and Peconic Bay.I realize there are probably good virtues to both Pygmy and Chesapeake Light Craft designs but don't know how to choose. My husband is a very competent woodworker and advanced beginner kayaker.He is 5 foot 7 inches and a slender build. Does anybody have any suggestions? Experience with both? Strong feelings about the design differences? Thanks for the help.