When I was looking for plans to build my small jet boat I decided to forego purchasing a complete kit and build strictly from plans and patterns. I chose Glen-L Marine for my plans as they included full-size patterns for the frames, stem, transom and breasthook, and included a complete fastening schedule. This saved quite a bit of time that would have been spent transferring the dimensions to layout paper. They also have a wider variety of designs.
I elected not to use the bronze nails and purchased additional screws instead. I found it better to use screws as, in some instances, it is difficult to drive nails when there is no solid backing; such as in laminating the sheers. When using screws in these areas it is important to countersink and plan the location of the fasteners to limit the need to remove them when fairing the members.
For first time builders who might feel intimidated with the prospect of cutting all the patterns there are full kits available from Bateau, Clark Craft or Jamescraft (Bisconti Boat Works). Each of these companies has several kits from which to choose offering rowing, sail and power boat options. Of the three mentioned, Clark Craft is the most affordable. Jamescraft has the highest prices, but does offer completed boats as well. Considering the Jamescraft prices I'm tempted to open my own boat building business.
There are additinal companies listed online which offer more specialized options, such as driftboats, canoes and kayaks and Adirondack Guide Boats.
There are also free plans available from Svenson's and other sites for those of you who might wish to do your own "lofting".
I elected not to use the bronze nails and purchased additional screws instead. I found it better to use screws as, in some instances, it is difficult to drive nails when there is no solid backing; such as in laminating the sheers. When using screws in these areas it is important to countersink and plan the location of the fasteners to limit the need to remove them when fairing the members.
For first time builders who might feel intimidated with the prospect of cutting all the patterns there are full kits available from Bateau, Clark Craft or Jamescraft (Bisconti Boat Works). Each of these companies has several kits from which to choose offering rowing, sail and power boat options. Of the three mentioned, Clark Craft is the most affordable. Jamescraft has the highest prices, but does offer completed boats as well. Considering the Jamescraft prices I'm tempted to open my own boat building business.
There are additinal companies listed online which offer more specialized options, such as driftboats, canoes and kayaks and Adirondack Guide Boats.
There are also free plans available from Svenson's and other sites for those of you who might wish to do your own "lofting".
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