: What are the relative merits of using an internal strongback (such as Nick
: uses) versus using an external srongback (the seemingly more traditional
: approach)?

: If you have plans intended for an external strongback and wish to use an
: internal one, how do you decide where to put the cutouts in the forms for
: the strongback?

Drew,
You bought North Star plans from me so I assume you're talking or asking about using an internal strongback on this boat.

Don't!

Nick feels his internal strongback strength is sufficient for his boats.

I don't feel it is strong enough for mine. I want a bullet proof strongback with ridged support all the way to the tips of the stems. It only takes a couple strips to deflect the stems of a long boat.

The strongback is the foundation of your boat. Don't skimp or under build this. Use the strongback I recommend. For that matter please follow my instructions to the letter. After building a lot of boats, I waste very little time or effort. I've put together a system that works well and CONSISTENTLY.

This is a big project with a lot of variables. The plans are designed to solve problems every step of the way. Each builder develops a system of work to control the variables. If you start incorporating other peoples work methods or ideas you will run into problems.

If you want your boat to go together smoothly and fast please follow my instructions. Imagine you are an apprentice in a boat shop. This is the time honored method of learning the trade. By following the methods shown, you learn and understand the way to avoid problems. You learn the ropes. Then when you go it alone, you start at a point far ahead of those who learn only by trial and error.

This BB is great fun. There is a lot of creativity in the work people do and the ideas thrown about here. We are fortunate to have Nick hosting this BB ( and I thank him) AND we are lucky to be part of this very active, exciting group of strip builders. This is a very special time and group of people.

I monitor and respond to questions on this board just because I have people like you who have bought my plans and get confused by all the different ideas on building posted on this BB. One method or technique cannot be dropped into the process of another work style without problem. If you're a novice and pig headed you'll plow right through never knowing how much harder you made the job for yourself.

On your first boat I strongly suggest you follow the instructions.

All the best,

Rob Macks
Laughing Loon CC&K
www.LaughingLoon.com