I'm getting ready to build a SOF using Chris Cunningham's book. Maybe I'm missing something, but I can't figure out why, if the keelson, chines, and gunwales are to have an actual dimension of 3/4", he suggests resawing them from 2x lumber. Why not just use 1x nominal lumber?

Also, is there any harm in building a slightly more relaxed fit to the kayak? I'm a Greenland paddler, with an acceptable basic roll. My main boat is a woodstrip Outer Island, 18' by 21". I am concerned that a much lower deck/tighter fit will be uncomfortable (limited ability to bend knees) and anxiety producing (can I get out before I drown). Of course the SOF should be fairly low volume, and not a tub, but I'm leery of creating a super-tight, hard-to-enter, hard-to-wet-exit boat. At my skill level, I'd likely be nervous about paddling it alone. I figure its better to 'fess up before I build. Comments welcomed.