We received the plans and built two Shrikes over the past winter. We cut the shear panels at the -40 line on the plans, and built the boats per plans and the build manual. Gary’s finished at 15’6” (472.5 cm) and 33 lbs (15 kg). The coaming was created by laminating 5 layers of 3 mil okoume plywood. Per the build manual, all joints were taped with 3” fiberglass tape. The cockpit area had 6 oz fiberglass and epoxy applied between the bulkhead panels, then painted black with a sealer that we use for non-skid purposes. The entire kayak exterior was wrapped and finished in 4 oz fiberglass and MAS epoxy. The bottom and shear panel were painted black utilizing Supermarine Marine Paints. The foredeck was completed in a natural finish by applying high gloss clear paint, also from Supermarine, over fiberglass and epoxy. The black next to the natural wood is very striking.
These were not our first stitch and glue projects, so we were familiar with the process, but found your plans and build manual to be excellent for those without that experience.
Our more experienced kayak club members have all paddled the kayak, and have marveled at the speed, agility and ease of rolling the Shrike. Rolling (successfully) is on our bucket list.
