Hi Mick;

Some good points, especially the "forced" deck/hull division. I think it is a carryover from the strip built canoe, from which the new generation kayak designs evolved. Seems that the further a designer is removed from the early canoe era, the less distinct the sheer line becomes.

With an external strongback, generally the hull is stripped and the exterior glassed before the upright supports are removed. The hull with stations still attached (hot glue, glue slop, or whatever is holding the forms in place), is then moved to a cradle-type support (perhaps mtd. on the existing strongback), where the deck is then stripped. It is here that I can see the benefit of an internal 'back. Less diddling when you start the deck. In retrospect, it wasn't a big deal for me using an external, I wasted more time experimenting with glassing and finishing techniques than I did on stripping - But I kinda lean in your direction, that is, an interior strongback just seems the more elegant solution. - - Although I'll probably re-use my external 'back because of laziness . . . ;-)

Best Regards, Spidey