Hi MIke,

The book says to make all the joints with brass screws.
I didn't like that trick & that's why I was considering doing it with epoxy.

I now realise the epoxy will not add significant structural strength, it will only add strength to the joints.

how did you built your frame ?

what did you use to hold it together ?

Erez

: I decreased the frame members width, but increased the thickness, so their
: wasn't much of a weight savings there, if any. I used western red cedar
: for the frame, it is quite strong for it's weight, the way the Walrus is
: constructed, the cedar should be quite sufficient. I treated the frame
: with deck treatment, the cedar is rot resistant, so this treatment should
: work fine. I believe saltwater is easier on the kayak than freshwater.

: I skinned the kayak with 9 oz polyester, that appears to be stronger than 14
: oz canvas. It weighs less and also absorbs less of whatever coating you
: seal it with, giving you a double weight savings. I also used only 3
: quarts of Varathane to coat the skin, I used over a gallon of paint on my
: previous Walrus (canvas and roof paint) that wieghed in at 33 pounds.

: Skin kayaks can be made even lighter without sacrificing strength or
: durability. The cost could be in attention to construction detail, higher
: tech (higher cost) materials, or more careful design.

: Mike