: God point. The kayak is 21 inches wide and hard chined. I believe the widest
: panel is about 9 inches or so right under my butt.
: Does anyone know how much of a weight difference I'm looking at?
: Thanks again.

David, if this is your first boat and your concern is weight then focusing on how you apply epoxy will make more sense in the big picture than removing elements necessary for strength. If you are confident that you have the techniques down for applying the minimal amounts of epoxy necessary to do the job then consider cutting strips of 4oz cloth in conjunction with 4oz glass as a replacement for 9oz tape and 6oz cloth.

Again, listen to the directions that come with the plans. I find fewer problems arise following the designers recommendations first.

Just speaking from the experience of making heavy light kayaks.