: Why use dowels for your stringers?

I thought about square stringers but, the dowels seemed easier (Till I started splicing them together). I made half rounds in the frames where they touch so, securing them isn't much of a problem. From the rear deck to the fore deck, a square stringer would have to take a pretty good twist where the dowel doesn't care about it's orientation. Attaching deck rigging is a little tricky too. I have to build up an area of the frame level with the stringer for a flat area to attach to. The dowels weren't too expensive but, I'd hate to ditch them at this point (Too much work in making a straight 15 foot dowel )

: What kind of use are you expecting for this boat?

Being my first kayak (Owned) I'm planning on alot of flat water, lakes, exploring gunk holes and the occasional Beach Launch to the Atlantic. I like the idea of rolling (My dad flew aerobatics. I think rolling is in my blood) so, I made the decks lower volume than the S&G design calls. The rear deck is almost flat across the hull panels but, the fore deck is a fair height to fit a sleeping bag and stuff for the occasional camping trip.

Anyone in the Virginia Beach area reading this? I'll be looking for paddlers soon and would like to talk to some local builders and see how others are doing it. So far, everything I've learned is from this site, (and every other site that I can find) and Nick's book. I'd love to see someone else's work in person.

-David