Almost forgot to ask: Are you using a "screw-out" or "twist-out" deck plate? The former must be turned a few revolutions; the latter must only be twisted about 1/8 of a turn. I'm skeptical, however, if the latter seals as watertight.

Wes

: Hi Pete,

: I had the same idea as you. It looks like you're using a Beckson screw-in
: deck plate, right? Yours turned out much better than I feared the finished
: product would look, and that's encouraging. I think your hatch looks
: really pretty with the black ring around it. It compliments the dark wood
: you used.

: As for how well it seals... have you had the boat in rough water/surf yet? Do
: you get ANY seepage of water through, or is it fairly reliable and
: watertight? Also, how convenient/quick/easy is it to open and close the
: hatch while paddling? (i.e., Can you get in and out easy enough to do it
: quickly in rough conditions? Do the threads ever try to cross-thread and
: bind? etc.)

: Thanks!

: Wes

: Hi there, Wes.