Hi Greg:
I am new to the building of kayaks, so I cannot really respond regarding the building of these boats. You will find many, very experienced builders and paddlers on this site who will help you more than I could dream of. I am sure you will get many helpful responses. BTW...check out Ross Leidy's site ( http://ross.secant.com/), as he built Jay Babina's Outer Island and offers great insights and pics regarding the building of the boat and much more.

However...here is my 2 cents....
I found the Outer Island to be a wonderful and beautiful boat to paddle. (I don't know anything about the Artic Hawk.) I paddled the OI and found it to track beautifuly and to be very responsive in handling. Jay designed a beautiful boat. I decided not to build it because of the low front deck....which was unfortunately limiting due to a knee problem that I have. I found it tough to enter and exit in shallow water. I decided not to enlarge the design as it would defeat the beauty/handling of its shape. Of course in deep water, it was easy to exit!

Given your size, you might also want to consider the Redfish Silver, or consider the new Redfish King that will be available in January (www.redfishkayak.com)...designed by Joe Greenley. Joe builds exquisite boats with superb handling (I am told). One priority for me was to build a boat that needs no rudder...such is the case with both Joe Greenley's boats, as well as Jay Babina's Outer Island.

Being new to the building of these boats....I have had a blast choosing one to build....took me about a year. I am building my first boat....the Redfish Silver for my son, and will build the Redfish King for myself. Joe Greenley has been fantastic in responding immediately to my email questions, and his plans/directions are great!

Enjoy...I sure am!
Bob