Hello Harvey et all,

thanks for your responses guys, ...

: -- These gaps might be explained by the fact that this is an old dried out
: frame. They'd certainky be tighter when the frame is enveloped in a skin.
: That said, I agree that they are formed to allow movement.

Innitialy I thought so, too, but in particular the gap in the stern section seems too regular (in two dimensions) to be explained just by dry-shrinking.

: There are actually two dowels on each side of each horizontal plate-- the
: photo has been cropped. (Note lower left image on page 27).

: A single dowel would not encourage more flex so much as it would encourage
: the dowel to break. The cross pieces being severed still allow for
: considerable flex.

well noted

: It all depends on what one's goal is with building a "baidarka." If
: you are after the 'secrets' of their flexibility, it is best to build as
: close tot he original as one can. If you are after the shape, you could
: even build it out of plywood, cedar strip or ferro-cement. I personally
: believe that analyzing the hull-shape without considering the intricacies
: of the structure and joinery is wrought with error, but it doesn't
: necessarily mean you'd end up with a bad kayak.

Inspired by the historic praises of the baidarka and the voyages done in these kayaks, my goal is to have a high-performance, ergonomic and sea-worthy boat that would carry me long distances on rivers, costal waters, and open sea passages, equivalent to the original in design and function, built with modern materials. So I guess understanding the original and being as close as possible to it is key.

: The best writings on these matters comes in "Contributions to Kayak
: Studies" published in 1991 by the Canadian Museum of Civilization
: (Edited by Eugene Arima). It may be worth getting your hands on a copy--
: fascinating stuff by a variety of authors.

: Thank you, and all the best,
: Harvey

Kind regards
Mike