: (Cross-posted to CPA forum) This is off-topic, as my interests are
: not limited to kayaks, but it seems to me it is mostly amateur
: boatbuilders who are willing to share info about lightweight
: composite materials construction.

: As a start towards learning about composites, I just bought the
: last produced edition (1987) of the "Boatbuilder's
: Manual", edited by Charles Walbridge, a book which many
: kayak and canoe boat builders like.

: Perhaps 1987 is old enough that materials and techniques are out of
: date.

: Does anyone know of a similarly comprehensive modern discussion of
: composite construction and materials techniques?

: I'm not sure how to judge it, but many sellers of composite
: materials have somewhat less comprehensive on-line info on their
: websites, e.g. (not a comprehensive list):

: http://www.sweetcomposites.com
: http://www.aircraftspruce.com
: http://www.eagerplastics.com
: http://www.raka.com
: http://www.fiberglasswarehouse.com

: Anyone have any ideas or sources of information? I am a beginner
: and don't want to get real complicated.

There is an old(er) composite book, I can't find my copy yet - it's still in a box, about building canoes (Brit book so they call kayaks canoes) out of composites and this might be it, but the techniques that worked 20 years ago still work and it's a decent primer on composite construction. Just because the materials and some construction methods may have changed doesn't mean the older ways don't.

Nick's two books are an excellent investment if you're thinking of learning composites too.

Bill H.