> I lurk in this group but have never posted. I am a 61 year old disabled
> male who used to paddle years ago but resumed last year. I investigated
> both companies and have paddled 2 Pygmy (private owner) and 4 CLC models
> (CLC paddle days and one private owner). I could go either way but the
> Chesapeake 17 is suited to my disabilities and they were helpful. Pygmy
> when I called and said I was from Baltimore proceded to run down CLC. CLC
> in contrast provided straight forward phone information and was very
> helpful. I have not build yet because of certain circumstances and have
> missed some CLC classes but I will go that way. They have proven to me
> they are very kind and helpful. Look at their website where they have some
> weight saving options. Yes, I am paddling fiberglass now. I agree get out
> and paddle.

I lived in the Annapolis area when I built my MillCreek, and proximity was a big factor in my decision. Very helpfull to be able to run down the road to their shop and go stare at their millcreek they have for show. That way I could go "ah, that's how it fits".

If you don't build in their class, and try it yourself, I'd like to offer a few suggestions that I learned in building my MillCreek.

1, ditch their full scale trace sheet. Sorry Chris, but it's horribly crude. It doesn't curve lines, but uses straight segments to simulate lines, which gives very sharp edges in several places. Doesn't help that the photocopier they use skids as well when making these copies. Not to mention the difficulty in transfering those lines onto the wood with any sense of accuracy. I gave up on mine and restarted, using battens instead, with much better results.

2, Get help with the deck mounting. That's not an easy thing to do, especially as a one man job. Made worse if you happen to use laun like I built with, and made impossible if you somehow get your hull lines curved up and try to create a compound bend with the plywood. That's why I finally went with a stripped deck, which I do not regret btw.

Oh, and watch out saying the word "luan" in front of Chris if you go that route. To say he doesn't like it would be putting it mildly.

All in all though, I am well pleased with CLC, their product, and their support. I'd like it a lot if he'd stick around here on this bbs for a professional builder perspective on s&g. That would be a nice addition for discussions imo.