Re: [Paddlewise] Baidarka

In a message dated 4/11/99 8:48:46 PM Pacific Daylight Time, 
donaldsc_at_vegas.infi.net writes:

<< Does anyone out there have any experience paddling or building a skin
 baidarka.  I am going to Wooden Boat School this summer and building one
 of Bruce Lemon's baidarkas.  Just wondering what I am getting myself
 into. >>

Bruce was out this way a few years back and I was lucky enough to paddle one 
of his singles and the double he and his dog frequently used.  They were 
wonderful craft -- very light, fast and stiff tracking.  Also, they flexed 
sinuously with the waves and strokes, just like my Khats and other modern 
(usually folding) skin boats.  One of the great features of Bruce's boats is 
the finish he uses.  It's a 2-part polyurethane on heavy nylon, covered with 
marine varnish.  It is very tough, but also very pretty.  Being translucent 
with a light tan color, it has a rather organic look, resembling some hides 
I've seen.

I think you'll have a very positive experience and come away with a great 
craft.  Bruce is a very nice person and I would gladly take one of his 
courses.  

Harold
So. Cal.
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