[Paddlewise] Pumping Out/Paddlefloat rescues

I can't help weighing in and recommending a minimum volume cockpit, so the
boat can be paddled while flooded, and a hands-free pump, notwithstanding
that some list subscribers may immediately fall asleep at the mere mention.
People usually prefer to have the same old problems, rather than cope with
the change required for a new solution.
"All I can figure is that few people ever practice pumping the kayak dry
after reentering it." What do they do, paddle around in a cold bath after
re-entry?
"If more did practice this, there would be an even stronger argument for
hands-free pumping systems.  (Or dry boat re-entry techniques)" Exactly
right, IMHO. I find it nothing short of amazing that Matt, having come up
with a cutting edge hull shape, avoids bulkheads in preference for bags and
sea socks. Bulkheads allow both minimizing the cockpit volume, and fixing a
foot-pump on the forward bulkhead, or an electric on the rear. The stress
riser argument against bulkheads doesn't hold if the bulkhead is relatively
thin and slightly less than tight fit. Matt, have you ever had a boat with a
good foot pump? All this clowning around with a fixed outrigger and hand
pumping can be avoided.
I should add that I usually take a paddlefloat, for the certainty of a
paddlefloat re-enter and roll. But I'd try everything else before resorting
to it. And hand pumping is a joke in rough conditions that have caused a
capsize. Far better to paddle away while pumping.
A good near-death experience from time to time might lead to a re-evaluation
of the false comfort of carrying a paddlefloat and a hand-pump.
Reading this over, it sounds a little strident, but so does Matt.
Cheers, PT.


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