Thanks. This was what I wanted- partly the braoder, varried effects of weight, and partly what people considered important and so would respond to. I was vague on purpose so I would get this kind of response.

: Eric it would help if you could be more specific in your questions regarding
: your situation. "how much weight does what to handling". A boat
: that is designed to accomodate a 200lb paddler plus 75lbs of extra weight
: won't be as much affected as a kayak designed for a 120#paddler with 75#.
: A one gallon bottle of water tossed into the farthest aft part of the
: kayak raises the bow and depresses the stern a little, reducing weather
: cocking a little. Moving your body forward and aft a couple inches can
: have as much effect. Lot's of weight, 50#?, distributed evenly sinks you
: deeper in the water reducing the effects of wind, and also reduces your
: manueverability. Increasing the gear in the boat will increase the
: stability. Your question is kind of broad.