: I have never built a Morris SOF, and I don't have the book in front
: of me, but I have done several Yost-style kayaks similar to the
: way you described, and also one using a floating laminated
: coaming. The main disadvantage to the base plate approach, in my
: opinion, is that it adds unnecessary weight. As long as you take
: a little care getting in and out to put your weight on the aft
: end of the coaming, where it is resting on a frame or deckbeam,
: it should be fine. You can also put your hands out to either
: side on the gunwales to help support your weight.

: If you do go ahead with the base plate, I would definitely not
: epoxy the top plate to it. The epoxy will make it difficult or
: impossible to take it apart when you re-skin. Just use a good
: marine caulk instead. The coaming lip can be epoxied to the top
: plate, however, since you are unlikely to ever disassemble them.
: Also, you can run your brass or stainless screws from underneath
: the base plate up into the top plate so the heads are not seen.
: Finally, use Monel or stainless staples to attach the skin to
: the base plate.

: Good luck!

: Jeff

thanks for the answers guys. I think I will go with the base plate method. At 225lbs and not super graceful while entering the kayak I think the extra strenght and stability is worth a bit more weight. I am shooting for around 40lbs complete and I am at 28 framed up. I suspect skin, poly and extras will get me to around 40.

Thanks again,
Stefan