Launched September 12th, 2017
Build thread: Narfi's HC14 build thread - LAUNCHED
Deviations from the plans:
4oz fiberglass over entire inside and outside. (Plans just have tape on the seams)
Air tight compartments added to each end and covered outside with 4oz fiberglass.
Seats each moved 4.5in toward the center.
Seats lowered almost yo the bottoms of the side panels.
Plans specify 55lbs if built light. This one ended up a 90lb beast.
Review:
I had read horror stories of this model being very unstable and was concerned how we would fair on our launch.
I am happy to report that we had no issues with stability even in small wakes from other boats or small rollers once out on the big lake. Landon was a little timid of tipping but by 20minutes into our trials he was jumping up and down and intentionally trying to rock back and forth. Once back he got out and I pushed back out and tried standing up solo and had no issues even with most of my weight on one foot to the side it was fairly stable. Then his turn for solo was also successful and he had no trouble going out and ramming back onto shore by himself.
I have no experience with canoes or paddling. It seems to move quickly through the water and while it takes a few strokes to really build momentum, it seems to glide quite a ways once you stop as well.
Landon had fun, I had fun, and we both are quite proud
