: I am trying to choose between the S&G and the hybrid version available from
: Newfound. There is, of course, additional cost and time involved in the
: hybrid over the S&G. Is it worth it?

In my opinion, it is worth it. I have build a strip canoe and a S&G kayak. The S&G is nice, but does not compare to the stripper in overall appearance.

: This being my first boat project, and with limited woodworking in the past, I
: am interested in your opinions out there--particularly those that have
: built both strippers and S&G, and those that may have approached that
: first project with little to no experience.

The strip deck will add little complexity from a technical woodworking standpoint. My experience was that the stripper took a lot more time, but was not any more difficult than a S&G.

: Thank you in advance.