That's going to be stunning under varnish! Nice job! I'd be interested in hearing how you assembled the banded feature strips.

I'd recommend the random orbit sander. if possible, get one with variable speed and a dust port to attach to your shop vac. (A Goretex filter on the shop vac is probably a good idea - after 4 boats, my dust laden vac motor has started squeeling like a pig) I've been happy with my Bosch.

For me, a belt sander is just too unwieldy for use on a kayak. I did make an attempt when building my Wee Lassie II, but I quickly chickened-out. Go spend your birthday money on a ROS.

More pictures, please.

Ross

: I'm within a few days of starting to sand my guillemot and thought it would
: be helpful to get a few of your opinions.
: I currently have a 5" ROM with the velcro and it likes to throw the
: sanding disks around the shop. I also have a friend who offered to let me
: borrow his hand held belt sander, & I have built a few half sheet
: sized faring boards.
: I also just happen to have a little birthday money that could go toward a
: half sheet ROM if it is worth the expense. I'm a little nervous about the
: belt sanders ability to turn a nice boat into sawdust and figured that the
: ROM would be a little wiser but I really don't mind taking the time to
: hand sand with the faring boards if it will give be a better finished
: product. I would love to hear your comments and advice.

: I also couldn't help but include a photo, I've got a bad case of the proud
: new papa syndrome that comes with building the first boat.