Hello Dick
Thank you for your kind words - Yep, I guess I'm the experimental kind of person
The idea of making my own puzzle joints was a moderate success & partial failure, hence why I am back to scarfes ..... though it was successful enough to be used on Panels 1 of my Sassafras 14 - the rest , boards 2 through 5 will all be scarfed
My intrigue of CPES has lead me to starting this thread and, all things being equal, it would seem a worthwhile trial.
I can appreciate what you are saying about stacking experiment on experiment but I am hoping to mitigate any risks with thorough thought (famous last words !!)
My prime reasoning behind trying new approaches however is the advice from a good frined who said that I should "build my first boat, second" ..... this first build is a trial for me, to practice & explore techniques & alternatives, to learn, to find out
No doubt it would be easier to build from a kit, but I like the challenge of lofting my own cuts and finding out how things work, how they interfit and what improvements I can make for when I build "my first boat" after all this experimentation
The laser-cut jig I made for 4 inch finger joints has been an exciting & enjoyable diversion, though I realise now that scarfes are the way to go. I am glad I have learned this, or I'd be forever wondering about it .....
Such is the way my mind works
I have many more ideas to 'experiment' with, such as linear reinforcement beneath the gunwhale with carbon epoxy, using carbon/kevlar sheathing on the lower hull (below the waterline), fully sheathing the outer hull in 40 g/sm tissue, paint finishes versus varnish, using 25mm marine ply for both gunwhales instead of solid timber and a few others ....
But I do, most sincerely, thank you and everyone else who has replied to this thread and helping me to understand and learn from your own experiences
Sincerely, and with kindest regards,
Tony