>Hi Rick,

FWIW, I, too aquired a bunch of pacific coast cypress, with the hopes of using it in a stripper project at some point in time ... this stuff seems a lot heavier than the typical woods used in a stripper, so I would anticipate that the boat will be a fair amount heavier than anticipated. From the charts I've read, it seems to be stronger as well, and it has a good reputation as a boat building wood and allegedly "steam bends" well.

I did build a greenland style paddle (see Ross's site for instructions and pictures) with it ... all the epoxied joints, seams, etc. are strong, as I've put a lot of weight on one end to see how much it would flex if (and when) I use it with a paddle float for re-entry. Some small test pieces I've made w/ epoxy are very strong. But my knowledge and sustained experience with it are limited.

Several months ago, I asked for recommendations on this board about buying it (at a very good price) and several people thoughtfully posted with a positive recommendation, although I didn't have a specific use in mind ... I'll probably use some for a rub rail on the s&G I'm building.

If you do use it on a stripper kayak, please post the choices of complimentary woods you intend to use ... I'm having a little difficulty with small test panels trying to figure a decent color scheme with this bright yellow relatively grainless wood.

John