Paul Cooper from Australia

What model Shrike did you choose?
Shrike-R the specialist rolling variant. Last year I built a full-size Shrike.

What modifications, if any, did you make to the design described in the Build Manual?
The topsides are lowered 40mm at the front and 60mm at the rear. The sheer clamps had to be made with a lamination at the centre of the cockpit. This was a bit of extra work but it paid off in the end. The step down at the cockpit adds to the look of the boat and also makes it easier to roll.
The kayak is painted the same colour as the first: Rescue Orange in Toplac, a one pack, from International Paints. Also I flared all the glass tape on the outside . This gives the kayak a nice clean look

What is the weight of the finished kayak?
10.5 kg. My first Shrike was constructed from Australian 4mm ply, and when I purchased it I felt it was heavy. The new Shrike is made of Gaboon ply from Israel. I used 3mm for the deck and sides and 4mm on the bottom. The first kayak came in at 14.5 kg and the new one is 4 kg less.

How does the kayak perform on the water?
The new kayak is more responsive than my full-size Shrike when paddling and rolling. I’m more than happy with the end result in both performance and looks. Best of all, it is a pleasure to transport.

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