: I weigh about the same - and Tom's scantlings are just fine. I've
: built plenty of his boats, including the Sea Rover, and never
: noticed any sag or spring in them. Each piece of wood is
: different, but it should work just great for you.
Perhaps the pic you saw was one of his aluminum framed boats, which
: are considerably more flexible and definitely sag. Tom came up
: with various schemes to stiffen some of those frames.

Thanks for you reply. It is helpful. I am at the stage where I've fitted everything up with bungees and the frame is suspended between stations 1 & 8. I had placed a block, the right height off the strongback, to set the correct rocker in the Sea Rover. Out of curiosity, I removed that midships block and pushed down on the frame. I was surprised at how easily the frame bent to the light pressure. I know others have built Tom's boats with western red cedar longitudinal members. You are correct about the photo being of an aluminum tube framed kayak and I suspect the paddler was a bit big for that particular boat. I was going to build the SR 2, but figured I'd be close to the weight limit, so went with the SR. I've looked at your pix and you do very nice work - an inspiration! I also plan to use polyester from Dyson. Cheers and thanks again.