The popularity and sport of kayaking and canoeing has grown tremendously in recent years estimates say over 700%! Kayaks and canoes are used by photographers, fly fisherman and bird watchers. among other things.  They're also great for hobby and exercise.

Kayaks range from about 10' to 18' long – single, double or triple person. Canoes range from about 12' to 16' long. Most of these kit boats are made from wood since wood is ten times stiffer than fiberglass by weight and nearly six times stiffer than epoxy composites. They require much less energy to move sleekly through the water. They also handle rough seas and fast paddling and won't get brittle with age.

Many of the boat kits use Okoume, a plantation-grown African mahogany that appears a honey color in its natural state, but can be stained beautifully to any finish, as preferred. One manufacturer offers a special “lap stitch” design that allows novice woodworkers to build beautiful lap strake boats. Some of these boats are also designed so they can be easily propelled with an electric trolling motor or a small gas-powered outboard.

Besides the great satisfaction of building a wonderful boat, the savings over assembled boats can be significant – well over 50% – as much as $1000 to $2000 in some cases. You can build a real show piece, since these boats can be finished with a wide variety of special stains, epoxies, varnishes and paints. And, you kan get all your finishing supplies through KitGuy!

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Kompleteness of Kits: Kits usually include all of the wooden parts necessary, brass and/or stainless steel hardware, fiberglass and taping (as needed), as well as all of the solid wood parts including deck beams, trim and rub rails, etc.

Tools: Basic woodworking tools are usually all that you need. Some that may be helpful include: hot melt glue gun, sanding block and sandpaper, wood file, carpenters level, wire cutters, contact cement. And, you're in luck – you kan get all your tools online now!

Accessories: Hatches and rub rails, rudders and foot braces can be added in some cases. Sails and sailing rig parts, paddles and floatation safety devices are also available. A complete range of epoxy and fiberglass as well as other boat-building materials including brass fittings and screws, washers and more are available.