> Hoping to build a kayak later this winter and trying to decide on whether
> to go with CLCs Chesapeake Lt 17 or their West River 164. Any thoughts or
> comments or comments from builders or users of either of these boats,
> likes, dislikes, conditions used in, etc. would be appreciated. Would also
> be interested in other similar stitch/glue type designs, any
> recommendations on other designs?

I would also check out Pygmy Boats (see link below), particularly if you are interested in a kit. Pygmy and CLC are the largest stitch-and-glue kit-manufacturers. Their web pages both take a few shots at the others' techniques (particularly scarf joints), but both companies have extremely good reputations for their boats and customer support. I would try to test-ride both boats to decide which design you like, as opposed to making a decision on the scarf issue, or the beveled versus non-beveled deck issue.