: So, if you go to all the trouble of making laminated stems and add glass
: over them you've defeated their purpose.

Not necessarily--these are the spots on the kayak most likely to incur damage. Like you said, some people build museum quality boats (and treat them as such), some build boats, use them, and damn the consequences..er..damages. Or at least we'd prefer our frequent scratches to be cosmetic only.

Laminated hardwood stems under glass are TOUGH. I'd rather have the stiffness of the hardwood under my extra layer of glass, but as Nick says, also protect the hardwood from ever getting wet.

Just another data point.

Shawn

: If you know why someone chooses
: a method you'll understand if that choice fits your desires. If you just want
: pretty wood stem edges it's much easier to apply a veneer strip stem edge
: on top of all stripped stems.

: All the best,

: Rob Macks
: Laughing Loon CC&K
: www.LaughingLoon.com