I'm getting ready to build a Cape Ann from OneOceanKayaks. The question I have is about adding inner stems. Looking through Ted Moores book, KayakCraft, he seems to be pretty adament about the need for them for strength. That means some additional work altering the bow and stern end forms to accomodate the additional dimensions as well as making the stems themselves. I don't mind the work if there is a benefit, I just don't know enough yet about these things to make an informed guess.

I also have Nick's book and didn't see anything in there regarding inner stems. It seems Nick and Vaclav are pretty much in agreement and that Ted Moore has moved in bit of a different direction. I will put the outer stems on as outlined in Vaclav's manual.

What is the general consensus here. Are the inner stems overkill or do you feel that it's worth the extra work to add them?

Thanks in advance for your opinions.
Leo