Deep scratch on my swift kevlar

Hi

I am deeply sad about my new canoe as it went through a pointy log at a high speed. Just wondering if I need to take any action given that this looks much deeper than a normal scratch

Looks a little deeper than most but I'm not seeing a difference in "fuzzing" as it crosses the individual fibers (great close-up BTW) and the left-hand scratch, in particular, seems to bisect the high & low points of the horizontal fibers pretty well.

I'd think you probably aren't into the weave and, therefore, repairs are optional. Might make a good winter project but I wouldn't worry about it during paddling season. (Then again, I'm the reason that I can't have nice things.)

Thats a crazy macro shot!

You can fill that with a couple drops of epoxy.

I agree with Gamma. Doesn't look like anything that got into the cloth. I wouldn't worry about it but, like Tryin' said, you could give it a little epoxy if it makes you feel better.

Alan

A few years ago I purchased an automotive headlight lens restoration kit which came with several small sheets of emery from 2400 to 10000 grit. I can't tell you how many scuffs and scratches I've made disappear with that kit. For deeper scratches on Swifts, I use clear gelcoat from Evercoat Marine Match 'n Patch. Another handy tool for small scratch and patch repair is the wife's old nail files, really just small strips of emery on a flexible strip. I have had several Swifts, and as much as I love the brand, they seem very susceptible to spider cracking and dings.

I'd do nothing. But if you wanted to spot-fill, you could. Does Swift use epoxy or vinylester? Apply whichever was used to make the boat.

Well, sorry about your new boat getting blemished. But you should see my kevlar canoes.

PortageW/Cerberus said:

I'd do nothing. But if you wanted to spot-fill, you could. Does Swift use epoxy or vinylester? Apply whichever was used to make the boat.

Click to expand...

I agree with this.

And although I understand that the first scratches can be painful I think you should be proud that you are using and enjoying the boat. But I don't understand how a log can scratch a boat.

To me scratches are character markings- the main visual difference between a "cottage queen" and a wilderness tripper are the scratches, they prove that you've been in the rough stuff; you've dragged over beaver dams, you put in on gravelly shores, you've painted hidden rocks, and you've dropped it a time or two. None of that happens with cottage boats. Those marks and dings are badges that show you've been a tripper, explorer, and adventurer, and are something to celebrate, not hide. If they're not structural just clean them up and celebrate the memories of the trips where you earned those badges...
All I'd do is fill with some clear epoxy and leave it at that, simply to prevent further "damage" and dirt from collecting, and put it down to experience.