> If you search the archives, you will find I have substantiated my
> statements. Those who object to my statements are those who have not
> substantiated their statments.

> I have not said the boats were unsafe. I have said that the recommended
> layups are not suitable for usage in fairly reasonable water. I have
> reported my damage experience, others have reported on their damage and I
> reported on the visible damage on boats at the N.H. Rendevous. I have an
> open offer to anyone where I will spot a builder 10-15 pounds of boat
> weight and build a more durable boat. The usual cost of entry is $3000 on
> each side. Most durable boat on a reasonable trip takes the entry fee (I
> loose all ties). I can raise the entry fee up to $200,000 if necessary but
> I will warn you I have never lost. You seem like the kind of guy who wants
> to be seperated from his money.

> I have said that the strength of layups will vary by 30% (same person same
> materials) from boat to boat. I have substantiated that. I have suggested
> that those who sell you instructions should give you a procedure to
> determine if your boats strength is it should be. They have yet to do so.

> I suggest that you learn to read so that you do not spread misstatements.

George, Take a look at your own words regarding kayaks built from Mr. Schade's methods. In my opinion, which is not based on expertise and quantitative testing (just one boat and a lot of reading and talking to others about their experiences), that statement is wrong and unwarranted. I've not seen any complaints as to the reliability of self-built craft. Anyone who can build one of these is surely smart enough to realize the limitations of both craft and of self. If one aspires to sell a few of these craft, so be it. Buyers are smart people too, they won't gernerally pay more than they want and they usually will make sure that what they get is what they desire. A relative few would go into an unreasonable environment with their craft.....most humans are funny that way..you know, they'd like to live to paddle again. Those who would take unusual risk should do so taking full responsibility for their own actions. Those guys in those skin boats way back when couldn't sue anyone if they dashed their boat to bits...but I bet they honed their paddling skills with a vengance before the next trip. We surely do live in a different world today, and one must consider the liability involved, but when the right builder/buyer combination is found, things can work out nicely for both. You seem very intelligent and once you sift through the crass attitude, your posts have some really good advice, most of the time. Take some of that 200 grand you're holdin' and get yourself a good therapist....just kidding George, but lighten up man.