Hi Bill,
I paddle primarily lakes and rivers. On large lakes such as Flathead Lake in Montana, there is a chance for paddling in big waves.

Some of the ideas for a more blunt bow came through talking to a friend who paddles strip built boats, and has attended some recent sea kayak symposiums. He told me that there was some discussion regarding the sharp ends of wooden sea kayaks, and some concern for safety.

Given this discussion with Dave, and for my own interests, I decided to look into softening the bow and stern of my Guillemot. I now think that I have moved beyond the ideas expressed here, and will be happy with more traditional laminated stems. I think that I can soften the ends of the kayak just as others have, and I can tell that you agree with this. Thanks for sharing your view on my question, particularly since you are a safety kayaker.

Chris

: Hi Chris,

: Don't know where you paddle, but unless it's in big waves or surf with a
: group, there is very little danger to fellow kayakers with a sharper bow.
: We've had over a hundred boats in a confined very small bay and I've never
: given a thought that I'd hurt anyone with my fairly sharp bow, and I'm one
: of the safety boats

: Admittedly a more blunt bow will be more wear resistant, but with an external
: laminated hardwood stem that's somewhat of a moot point.

: Bill H.