: Speed and tracking. Some maneuverability of course.

The Merlin II is the most maneuverable of the two, and then I'd place the Magic before the Merlin. That might be because I've spent over a 1000 miles in the Magic verse a quick paddle in the Merlin, so I know the Magic like the back of my hand, but I suspect that most people would find this true. All three canoes are fast. The Magic, for me, the fastest, but it takes some muscle to power it at the faster speeds. The Merlins may be more efficient at normal touring speeds, but if you have the power the Magic goes.

: But I'm more curious if the strip built Merlin is close to either the Merlin
: II or Magic. I'm guessing that IF, and that's a big IF, the strip Merlin
: compares to either, it's closer to the Magic.

The Merlin is not a Magic, but neither is the Merlin II. Both the current Bell boats, IMHO, feel more seaworthy and are easy to control. The Merlin is fast though.

(echo......Freedom Solo.....echo)