: I am trying to make a decision between CLC's West River 180 kit and the Pygmy
: Boats Coho. I want a boat that is fairly fast and holds plenty of gear. Is
: anyone familiar with these boats and what are the differences between the
: two. Are the but joins that pygmy uses acceptable. It seems as if scarf
: joins would be better. I do like the multi-chine deck of the Coho. Thanks
: for any thoughts.

Bill,
I agree with Mike and Dave in general. Remember that although CLC supplies all the goodies that Pygmy charges extra for they do not supply adjustable footpegs unless you pay extra. I have built both Pygmy, an Arctic Tern and CLC, a West River 180 and a Pax 20. I have also paddled the Coho several times. Hands down I prefer the CLC. The use of a sheer clamp makes attaching deck items (and the deck) much easier and better. Both companies have good support but overall I found the CLC scarf joints and high rounded foredeck to be better and easier. The CLC kits seem to be a bit higher quality, in my estimation, and the price is definately lower for the CLC boats. You are not really comparing similar kayaks; the West River 180 is a high speed go straight kayak and the Coho is more manuverable. Do not overlook the smaller West River kayaks, the 162 and the 164. Any way you go, enjoy the adventure of building. I feel that there is no feeling quite like paddling a kayak you built yourself. Hope to see you on the water. Dave