Re: [Paddlewise] Ballast and trim question

From: <Rick.Sylvia_at_ferguson.com>

> I've heard several times that people are using "lead shot".  I've not done it,
> and have never bought lead shot, but I can't help thinking that it might be 
> cheaper to use lead ingots. 

I personally wouldn't use lead.  While it's nice and dense, it does have 
some safety and handling issues.  Scuba dive shops will carry plastic 
covered lead weights, though they aren't the cheapest and getting lead 
in bulk and permanently wrapping it would do the same.

I would use water or gear.  Water is available at the put in and you can
leave it behind when you're done as someone else pointed out.  No 
excessive carrying involved, just the empty containers.  Adding to the 
gear you normally carry could be done by always taking things like a 
repair kit, survival gear, spare clothes, water purifier etc.  This adds 
weight and security (I end up rescuing others I meet more than myself).  

My ditty bag and my repair kit are the densest objects - Amie, who prefers 
a bit of weight in her kayak always grabs those when we paddle together.  

I would also put the load where the gear is stored - some in the front and 
some in the rear.  This will be closer to touring weight arrangements;
you may as well get used to handling the kayak in a realistic configuration.

Mike

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