: One concern is weight. I'm 6' 3" and weigh in at 220lbs. Will something
: like a Great Auk handle my weight? I found a reference on it. If I
: remember correctly the capacity was exactly that 220lbs. I know that I can
: scale one up a bit but how much would be the question. Maybe with this
: mistress I'll lose a little... : )

We're about the same size. I started on a Guillemot-L (18 footer). According to Nick's specs on that boat, it should handle me no problemo once I'm done.

We've got about the same woodworking (and kayaking) experience too -- and I'm continually amazed at how forgiving the process is. Sure, you need to pay attention and think about each step. But if something truly horrible happens (not yet for me ... cross your fingers) this board is a never-ending source of ways to get help on such issues.

Also -- it helps to have friends who have big tools (i.e., table saw / router table / etc.) that you can borrow or use. It has the double-bonus of getting them involved in your project, and maybe even convincing them to start a boat of their own.

Go for it. Set reasonable expectations. And have fun.

Rick Brannan
rick (at) supakoo (dot) com