I have always tried to build my boats as light as possible, while maintaining structural integrity and general utility.
I also happen to prefer fast, skinny boats...this also keeps the weight down.
I am forever searching for methods of building lighter and lighter boats.
Most of my strippers are surprisingly light, my 16'8" DY weighs 31 lbs, and is holding up nicely.
I have (had) a 17 foot custom tandem design that was a joy to paddle and carry at 38 lbs.
I have another 18 foot tandem that weighs 40 lbs and has served me well for over 15 years.
All this was accomplished with just cedar and fiberglass with epoxy resin, no Kevlar, no carbon.
I know some skin on frame builds can be very light, yet durable. My son's 12 ft Snoeshoe weighs but 10 lbs!! But I don't particularly like paddling a pack boat.
Has anyone else built lightweight canoes/kayaks?
I am intrigued with skin on frame, Dacron over wood and other materials/techniques that I maybe never even thought of.
Why do I ask now?? I am getting ready to build another solo boat, maybe around 15 ft, and since I am constantly getting weaker (and more worthless!), I want to keep the boat as light as possible.
Anyone?
I also happen to prefer fast, skinny boats...this also keeps the weight down.
I am forever searching for methods of building lighter and lighter boats.
Most of my strippers are surprisingly light, my 16'8" DY weighs 31 lbs, and is holding up nicely.
I have (had) a 17 foot custom tandem design that was a joy to paddle and carry at 38 lbs.
I have another 18 foot tandem that weighs 40 lbs and has served me well for over 15 years.
All this was accomplished with just cedar and fiberglass with epoxy resin, no Kevlar, no carbon.
I know some skin on frame builds can be very light, yet durable. My son's 12 ft Snoeshoe weighs but 10 lbs!! But I don't particularly like paddling a pack boat.
Has anyone else built lightweight canoes/kayaks?
I am intrigued with skin on frame, Dacron over wood and other materials/techniques that I maybe never even thought of.
Why do I ask now?? I am getting ready to build another solo boat, maybe around 15 ft, and since I am constantly getting weaker (and more worthless!), I want to keep the boat as light as possible.
Anyone?