Very real issues about getting used to the stability of different kayak. I have two folding kayaks, ( Folbot double & single) and a sit on top with rudder. (Aquaterra Prism)(And my first kayak was a Keowee II with rudder & spray deck) and have just received my Pygmy Osprey kit last night, still in its box. I am used to very stable kayaks, even sail them. I had a surf ski which was long, narrow, totally round on the bottom, fast and light. But I got upside down all too often in it. I had to keep moving or fall over. Funny my son relieved me of this boat and can surf it at Santa Cruz and can even stop and eat without falling over. Some boats are more stable than others and skill is even more important. I expect some serious getting used to my Osprey but getting my skill level up is part of my plan. Look for what features are important to you. Is speed is important, do you intend to fish or sail, how much will you carry? If you want stability then a somewhat wider boat will help as will a boat with less rounded hull. You will not outgrow a wide slow boat if you use it for its design features. My Folbot double is a bit of a barge but i take visitors and children out for trips, it carry 600 lbs of "stuff' and I sail it. I like my plastic sit on tops for the surf zone. If you pick a design that you will use a lot you will not outgrow it. Just my 2 cents from a newby to this list. The question I wonder is how many folks chose their boat on its looks more than a functional analysis? Good enough reason. If its that beautiful you will never outgrow it. Worked for me with my wife.

: Ihave found were to get the wood for my strips,and figured out which glass I
: want to use(raka). Now I need to decide on a design. The plans I have now
: are for a Chinook designed by Chad Richert. Its 16ft. with a 24"
: width. I purchased them through a magazine and include everything on two
: sheets (half stations side by side. I also like the Guillemot 17 and the
: Endeavor. my problem is I have ony been in a kayak twice. one a open
: cockpit Keeowee II(very wide) and a sit on top Ocean Kayaks Tandem. would
: the narrow beam of the Guillemot give me a problem. I really Like the
: design and I also don't want a wide Kayak I'll grow out of Quickly. Most
: of my paddling will be on lakes around Atlanta and South Eastern Tenn.
: Maybe some in Savannah and N.C.- Outer Banks. I've also thought of a
: double. any suggestions will be appreciated.