As an introduction to kayaking and kayak building, Nick's The Strip-built Sea Kayak excels. He goes into kayak design and outfitting, as well as describing the construction process for his boats. Ted Moores' book is a little better from a "woodworking as a fine art" perspective.

In a nutshell, I think Nick writes from a dedicated kayaker's perspective, and Ted writes from a woodworker's and fine canoe builder's perspective.

Kayak designs are subjective, and I can't tell you what you'll like to paddle, much less build. Get The Strip-built Sea Kayak through an inter-library loan, buy the one you like best, and get to work!

Try paddling as many different kayak designs as possible, and build one that is similar to a design you like.

Shawn

: I am about to build a 17' kayak for a winter project. After some research, I
: am torn between the Endeavor 17 and the Great Auk. I have read Moore's
: book KayakCraft and it was excellent, but I have not read Nick's book. Has
: anyone read both or seen plans for both the Endeavor and the Great Auk?
: Any suggestions on the best plan/instructions to follow for a skilled
: woodworker, yet kayak-building rookie?

: Thanks, mark