: You know, I think we boat builders go a little too nuts shaving
: weight off our boats. I know, I've built sub-30 pound Black
: Pearls. They're nice to lug around but a bit fragile on the
: water. 5 more pounds in the lamination and/or tougher woods
: wouldn't hurt. One of my "regular" builds usually end
: up weighing between 35-40 pounds.

: Seriously, I figure you're doing just fine if your wood kayak
: weighs less than a comparable plastic or fiberglass one. If you
: want to add some hardwoods for a splash of color or to show off
: some neat grain, go for it. Just remember they'll be tougher to
: work with (esp bending to curves and final sanding) and more
: attention will be required for tight joints. The results are
: definitely worth a few extra pounds.

: Dan

Hi Dan,

In the last few years, as I get older, I much appreciate lighter and lighter. Of course I'm always taking things to extremes , so too with this, have rough plans for a hopefull sub-15 lb. 17' kayak, extreme light SOF. Just need to get a few older projects finished first.

Bill H.