: ext - cannot build low sheer kayaks. like some sitontops, some surfskis,
: surfboots, and probably very difficult to impossible to build low sheer
: yaks like guillemots.

Hmmmm. Sorry, I really don't see this. On the other hand, this sounds like a great challange: guillemot on an external :-)

Your really talking about some specialized designs here. Even if I were to do these via internal, I'd do it on top of my external :-) It's just too valuable in terms of stability and space.

For me, deciding on internal/external depends on your building perspective. If building is the means to an end and you are only interested in a one off kayak or multiples of the same boat, then go internal. If on the otherhand, you are looking to build various configiurations/types/designs, external is the only choice. As a building platform, it has many potential uses (Including as a tool - see Spidey's strip ripping pages, for example).

You also mentioned earlier that external forms would be "floppy" and hard to work on once mounted. I can assure you, they don't need to be floppy and if need be, you can remove any form anywhere in the setup to modify it. You could even completely replace a form if necesssary. Using the risers with carriage bolts and wingnuts, realignment is quick, easy and adjustable and does not require permanent blocking or screws.

As for being top heavy, well that's more a function of your stands than the SB. Either design could be arranged in a way to be tippy or stable.

Just another opinion.

Happily external,

Bill