> I am trying to decide between a Pygmy Coho or an Osprey. The osprey is ~2'
> shorter, and would be easier to store, transport, and build in my garage.
> The Coho is longer, sleeker, and reportedly turns a little better. Both
> boats weigh about the same, and appear to have similar stability
> characteristics. I am a 165Lb, 5'11" male who intends to use the boat
> for day trips, mostly in relatively calm water, with occasional boat
> wakes. As an inexperienced kayaker, I would rather build a boat that
> challenges my current skill level than something that I will get tired of
> in a few months. Comments from those that have built or paddled these two
> designs would be appreciated.

HELLO. I'VE ONLY BEEN PADDLING FOR ABOUT 3 YEARS SO AM NO EXPERT BUT HAVE BUILT THE PYGMY OSPREY. IT TRACKS VERY WELL AND ISN'T AFFECTED MUCH BY WIND EVEN WITH DECK CARGO. OF THE 4 BOATS I'VE PADDLED IT WAS ALSO THE MOST STABLE( the others were a plastic Prijon seayak, a 17' fibreglass boat by Necky , and a stitch and glue boat;one of CLC's very old designs I was told) HOWEVER THE OSPREY TAKES UP MOST OF THE LAKE TO DO A HORIZONTAL 180 AND TENDS TO BROACH WITH FOLLOWING WAVES. THESE TENDENCIES COULD BE RECTIFIED WITH A RUDDER I IMAGINE. AS FAR AS EASE OF BUILDING; THEIR KITS ARE NICE, ESPECIALLY BECAUSE THE DECK AND HULL ARE JOINED STITCH AND GLUE STYLE RATHER THAN BENDING THE PLY TO SHAPE.