: I too use an internal/external stem. It does add a little weight but makes
: the ends pretty much bullet proof. Also I find it alot easier to build,
: but I'm used to bigger boats and they all have stems.

: Bill H.

I tend to use an inner stem too. The first cedar boat I built (pictured below) had an inner keel running its entire length running into stem and stern pieces. It worked out very well, with a keel stringer running the full length of the boat and giving a bit of extra stiffness. Keel or no keel, be sure to strip alternately from both sides and continuously check to ensure symetry. It is quite easy to pull a light stem out of alignment and it is embarrassing to go around in circles all the time.

Etienne Muller

Ireland