I did use screws as temporary clamps to install the inwales, positioning them off center of the block. Pretty slick trick I picked up on somebodys' Wee Lassie site. Actually I put a screw about every third block, clamped the rest and it was a huge help. I can see the advantage on the outwales as well. Thanks.

: First couple of canoes I built I epoxied the gunwales on, but now I
: only screw on. Even if you epoxy, the screws will act as
: temporary clamps, so if someone wanted them glued on, I would
: pre-drill holes and set screws, then remove and re-attach with
: epoxy, either leave screws in and plug or remove and plug.
: Either way, I always coat the inside of gunwales with epoxy to
: seal and prevent rot from inside.