Making the hole smaller will always make it a little harder to get in the cockpit and the thigh braces essentially make the hole smaller. However, I don't think you will find the low deck with the thigh braces to confining. You can always trim back the braces a little if they are in the way.

: I was wondering if anyone had any do's or don'ts for the night heron. I am
: going to build the low fore deck and low aft deck verson. (no need for
: volume with the exped sitting around.) Has any one built the thigh braces
: in the low decked boat? I am wondering if they will impede entry and exit
: too much? I am in vermont so if any one has one locally Vt or NY i would
: love to check it out.

: thanks

: Tom