[Paddlewise] Boat Strength and Weight

Matt writes:
"Here in the Northwest the public demands and gets a kayak that is a little
too lightweight
to take hard pounding on rocks or enders in surf."
That immediately prompts me to think that if that is the case, the
knowledgeable manufacturer ought to supply a heavier seaworthy boat as
standard, and supply a lighter boat on demand after explaining its lack of
strength and attendant risks.
On referring to the bible, Derek Hutchinson's "The Complete Book of Sea
Kayaking" 4th Ed, Chapter One, it opens with general comments about design,
and there is plenty of discussion of the design considerations useful to a
buyer. I can't find any mention of weight. There is a little about North
American designs, pages 19, 20 and 21, with recommendations for reinforcing
weak decks.
Where's the problem with the bible?
There are a few weak, but popular boats here as well. Some you can depress
the deck in places with one finger. That worries me, but the sales staff
tell you that it's strong enough. Have a look at the boat cracked in half 5
kms off shore at:
http://www.nswseakayaker.asn.au/forsale.htm
Regards,
Peter Treby
37°42'S 145°08'E


***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not
to be reproduced/forwarded outside PaddleWise without author's permission
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************