: Bill, looks like some nice boats. Someone suggested I consider the Pygmy for
: a first boat. How were these to build? I have some but limited woodworking
: experience and am considering building the Great Auk. However, I'm
: wondering if I should consider something like the Pygmy instead.

: John

John,

I have fairly extensive woodworking experience, albeit a hobby. The only fiberglass work I had done previously was on radio-controlled model sailplanes. The Pygmy kits were top-notch in quality and ease of construction. We also considered the CLC boats which seem to be just as complete and of the same quality. We preferred the Pygmys's chined deck over the stressed plywood of the CLC.

I didn't keep accurate track of my time, and I built both boats simultaneously, but I would guestimate that I have about 60 to 65 hours in each boat. I started the Osprey first and discovered a few time savers when it came time to do those same steps on the Coho.

To answer your question, I would think that a lot would depend on how much time you have to invest and how soon you want to be able to paddle your new boat. I can't speak from experience in building a stripper yet, but it will take considerably longer to build than the stich & glue. Although we love our Pygmys, I built them with the thought in the back of my mind that they would be an experiment to see if I had the patience to build a strip-built boat. Now I'm hooked and can't wait to get started.

Bill