I use a Japanese pull cut ultra fine saw(25 tpi),to cut along a well marked or scribed line .It will take a little more time,but is always under control,and any incipient goofs can be easily avoided.Will only cut straight lines,or very gentle curves.I start the cut by laying the saw almost flat on the scribed line,and gently cutting. When thru the deck,I then increase the angle some.Leaves a nice edge.
> What is the preferred method for cutting hatches? I have a basic orbital
> Skil-saw and a handle that can hold Skil-saw-type blades for manual
> cutting. I'm a bit leery of the plunge-cut as shown in Nick's book. I was
> also thinking of using a coping saw blade epoxied into the end of a dowel
> for a thinner, quicker cut by hand (set up for cutting on the pull
> stroke.)

> After seeing Joe's recent posts of his Aussie kayak, I'm contemplating the
> internal bungee method, too.

> Dean