I just finished a Merganser (it will hit the water tomorrow!) made with 1/8 luan and if (when) I do it again I'll probably use the good stuff. I felt obligated to glass inside and out as opposed to just taping the inside seams, and that probably put back most of the weight saved by using the lighter wood. Of course my inexperienced glass and epoxy work had something to do with that also. The wood was dirt cheap (less than $8.00 per sheet) but I don't know how much of a real saving it was after adding the extra glass and epoxy. I've finished it bright, and it looks OK in spite of a failed experience with water based stain. My opinion is that almost any wood looks pretty good after several layers of varnish.

Bill H.