Re: [Paddlewise] Need you advise, help, suggestion on how to proceed

I'ld like to weigh in on the side that getting the perfect kayak the
first time out is not so important.  In fact, you may be better off
concentrating on the "accessories" which will have a big effect on your
comfort and safety:

 o light, responsive paddle.
 o comfortable PFD
 o comfortable, dry, warm clothing
 o self rescue and signalling equipment

Skimping on these could make kayaking uncomfortable in any boat. 

That said, I just bought the "prefect" first boat.  At least, one that I
hope will be perfect enough to do what I want for the next 5 years or
so.  But, dispite test paddles and such, I won't really know how well I
like it till I've been out on a couple long trips with it. 

Tom Unger
Seattle



Jeff Rowland wrote:
> 
> Hi
> 
>    Need some advice, suggestions, whatever words of wisdom on how to proceed.
> I have been interested in purchasing a kayak and have decided on a fiberglass
> one.  For the last month, I have been doing a lot of research on all the
> models available and have identified some models I would like to consider.
> 
> The problems I am having are:
> 
> 1. Not being able to find stores carrying some of the vendors  I am interested
> in that are within  1-2 hour drive. I currently live about a hours drive from
> both Jacksonville, Fla. and Savannah, Ga.
> 
> 2. What I almost always run into are  stores carrying some of the vendors I am
> interested in, but seldom have the particular models I am considering.  Before
> making a purchase I definitely want to try out the kayak.  What I am finding
> is some stores say they can order the model I want to purchase and will let me
> try out a different demo model with similar characteristics, size etc.
> 
> 3. I have been able to find some stores that carry a model I am interested in
> but they are hesitant in letting me try it out since it is not a demo model
> and I am not ready to buy right then.
> 
> What I need is your advice, suggestion on how might proceed to find
> vendor/models I would like to check out.  Any one know of any store in South
> East USA ie Georgia,
> 
> North Fla., N.C., S.C. that carry some of the kayaks listed below  and have a
> good selection and also have models to try out.
> 
> Am I wrong wanting to try out a model before I buy or should I try out a
> similar model?  I have been looking for a local kayak expo, show in the S.E.
> but just missed the one in Charleston.
> 
> Any help you can give would be much appreciated.
> 
> Vendor/Model considering are:
> 
> Current Design:  Solstice Series
> 
> Dagger: Sitka, Meridian, Latitude
> 
> Eddyline( Can't find store carrying this line in surrounding area)
> 
> Necky: Any  Model
> 
> Northwest: Can't find store carrying this line in surrounding area
> 
> P&H : any model
> 
> Seaward: Can't find store in surrounding area
> 
> Valley Canoe:
> 
> Wilderness Systems: Shenia, Solution Models
> 
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                                                      ooooo
 -- Tom Unger                                       oo\    oo
    Wet Weather Consulting                         o   \     o
    (206)783-5839                                 o  B I\V I  o
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