Kirk,

I lowered the sheer to reduce windage and to get the rear deck lower for easy rolling. It seems to have helped with both of those problems. With a low rear deck I can easily lay back to do a roll, something that I have difficulty doing with my much higher volume Arctic Tern. Most of the kayaks produced today seem to have too high of volume for day-trip recreational paddling, in the wind they get blown around very easily. The Greenland kayak that the Walrus was modelled after had a 6-7/8" depth to sheer. Mine is longer (7") and wider (1") than the original, so I figured a 6" depth to sheer was not out of the question. I am happy with the low sheer, and I am working on another design (still in my head) that has the low sheer, moderately high ends, and much more flare, kind of a hybrid of West and East Greenland styles. My biggest problem with the design of my last Walrus is not enough rocker. I also went with more depth on the external keel, which combined with the greater deadrise, longer length and minimal rocker, makes the thing really grab the water. This is great in the wind, but swirling water of eddies and tide rips become very challenging.

Stainless steel screws would probably work fine. But I found a source (Tacoma Screw) for brass screws at 1/10 of the price of either the home megaplexes of marine supply stores. Cheap isn't necessarily a problem, just get stuff that will work for the task.

Thanks, I have had great success, I've accomplished more than I dreamed of. I had fun, learned a lot in the process, and had the side benefit of some kayaks that I am very happy with. Playing with design and different building methods is very satisfying.

Mike

: Thats what I needed to hear. I will definitly use the epoxy. I was planning
: to use polyester canvas as well, as everybody seems to really like it. Why
: did you lower the sides of your second Walrus though? Looking at pictures
: of it, it already looks pretty low around the cockpit. I was actually
: thinking of raising it from what Putz recomends. Also have you heard of
: anybody using stainless steel screws instead of brass? They seem to be
: alot cheaper, maybe I shouldnt focus so much on being cheap though.

: Thanks for your advice, Ive been following the progress of your boats for
: awhile and it looks like you've had some good success.

: Kirk