> I'm considering building a kayak, and after some reading and
> investigation, have focused my squinty eyes on the Arctic Tern. I'd like
> to hear what people that have built/paddled one think about it, especially
> in comparison to other boats. How stable is it? how does it perform in
> various adverse conditions (wind, currents, chop, cross seas, following
> seas, etc)?

I've just finished building an Artic Tern and am verry happy with it. It's light,fast and strong. I't felt a little tippier than my other kayak witch is more stable at 28" wide as compared with the Artic Tern at 23". I installed foam knee and thigh bracing for a snugger fit and it helped alot. Ive taken it in moderate ocean swells and small surf and it handled well. Fun surfing with it in following seas. I paddled in windy conditions with my brother who has a rudder and stayed on course with ease. Also Building it from the kit was like building a model airoplane, parts are all cut just glue together and glass it.