I am interested in making the Putz SOF Walrus or a custom Morris design. I found a reference in Putz's book that the Walrus 17 weighs about 70 lbs. How accurate is this? How much does a 17' Morris SOF weigh? I was hoping to stay under 40 lbs with a SOF kayak. I like the Walrus because it has a "known" shape and leaves less decisions for me to make and it has a "frame" to build on. Any suggestions on how to keep the weight down? I am planning on doing quiet water paddling, no open ocean, no rushing rivers.

Also, does anyone have a source for Nylon skin near Boston? Does anyone still use canvas? I can easily get canvas and like the idea of using the old style skin. If I store the canvas kayak indoors is it still a pain to maintain? Reliability is my main goal, I don't want to be paddling somewhere and have the skin leak on me.

Thanks for all of your help.