A new kayak

wildman said:
do be aware inflatable kayaks do not track well and are very susceptible to wind. There was a death in an inflatable on the Isle of Wight last week so do be careful out there.
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What makes you think that it being inflatable is relevant?

Richard
 
Tbear said:
What makes you think that it being inflatable is relevant?

Richard
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Inflatables tend to draw less and weigh less than rigid hulls, so blow down wind quicker. If you fall out of your boat you're more likely to become separated.

Being relatively cheap, they're also more likely to be in unskilled hands.
 
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last seen in Brighton, then turns up on IOW obviously blown there by the contrary winds we had last week. How the guy died no one knows yet but my money is on fatigue brought on by trying to paddle against the wind, only an inexperienced user would go to sea unaccompanied and without a radio in an inflatable. I know of many people who do use them but are aware of the risks and prepare. He was still in the kayak, or at least attached to it the full story has not been released yet so much speculation going on.
 
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Looking forward to getting her finished and out on the water
 
Thank you Wildman. It's not too bad but I want to get it done and use it rather than create a work of art!!
 
wildman said:
last seen in Brighton, then turns up on IOW obviously blown there by the contrary winds we had last week. How the guy died no one knows yet but my money is on fatigue brought on by trying to paddle against the wind, only an inexperienced user would go to sea unaccompanied and without a radio in an inflatable. I know of many people who do use them but are aware of the risks and prepare. He was still in the kayak, or at least attached to it the full story has not been released yet so much speculation going on.
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Although I have been canoeing for many years, I will not be taking an inflatable canoe onto the sea, only lakes and rivers.
 
An acquaintance of mine was building one and getting frustrated with the joint taping. This caused him to throw his electric drill into the corner of the workshop. The drill bounced of an inflated airbag, flew through the air and crashed through the bottom of the boat... It paddled quite well when he finally got it on the water.
 
Of course there is always the Pack Raft much loved by hikers and cyclists.

A pack raft is a cross between a small raft and a kayak, only weighs 4-5 lbs and packs up small enough to go in a backpack, tough as old boots and capable of carrying a lot of weight. Also capable of handling whitewater.

Packrafting is becoming a huge sport all over the world.

http://bicycletouringpro.com/blog/bikerafting-packraft-cycle-tour-with-casey-link-video-interview/

Don't look up the prices Richard, it's not good for your health!
 
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Made these today but a lot of guesswork involved . Any paddlers know if they are about right or a total disaster!.
 
Martin P said:
View attachment 33872

Made these today but a lot of guesswork involved . Any paddlers know if they are about right or a total disaster!.
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Good effort!
My opinion: take some wood off the top corners of the blade- it doesn't do much except catch on the boat, make the blade ( next time) longer and narrower then you can afford to make it thinner, thus lighter. The top of the shaft can be much thinner as there's little stress there. Here's one I made earlier:image.jpg. This is made mostly from cedar with mahogany stiffening.
 
this might help

Solo Canoe Paddle Sizing Chart
Paddler HeightRecommended Paddle Length
Under 5'5"260 cmNot Likely
5'5" - 5'11"260 cm280 cm
6'+280 cm280 cm


I think as a rough guide it should reach your chin
 
wildman said:
this might help

Solo Canoe Paddle Sizing Chart
Paddler HeightRecommended Paddle Length
Under 5'5"260 cmNot Likely
5'5" - 5'11"260 cm280 cm
6'+280 cm280 cm


I think as a rough guide it should reach your chin
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Depends on blade shape. A more accurate method is to kneel with the paddle upside down. The throat ( where blade meets shaft) should be a comfortable height - about shoulder height.
 
Mastodon said:
Good effort!
My opinion: take some wood off the top corners of the blade- it doesn't do much except catch on the boat, make the blade ( next time) longer and narrower then you can afford to make it thinner, thus lighter. The top of the shaft can be much thinner as there's little stress there. Here's one I made earlier:View attachment 33894. This is made mostly from cedar with mahogany stiffening.
Click to expand...

Ah yes. That makes sense .Your paddle looks a much finer and more graceful shape than mine too. Nice one
 
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