: It is true that the scarf joint will be stronger than the solid
: wood but I would think twice about putting a scarf near the ends
: of a canoe gunwale where there is likely the most curve,
: especially if steaming might be required to get the bend in the
: ends. The steaming or any heat will destroy the glue joint. The
: scarf will prohibit bending even if steaming is not required. In
: the middle of the canoe, I put the scarf running horizontal as
: this is against any curvature in the gunwale at that point so
: less stress on the joint.

Most WW canoe's have very little if any upwards curvature at the ends, generally have a pretty flat sheer, so there really isn't alot of bend at the ends. More in the middle.

If there is upward curvature at the ends then I'd agree completely.

Bill H.