I am referenced in this blog post as a builder(Stan Richards). You can link to my original blog through the link attached to my name. Also I have a YouTube video
The problem I’ve found with most 2x4s these days is that even if they are arrow straight when you pick them, they are unlikely to stay that way for long. Might be worth building plywood I-beams, especially if you are likely to build more than a single boat. I have a local supplier that carries “shop” grade plywood (not approved for structural use in buildings)for a decent price that works well for such things.
Hi Rusty, I sold my punt a few years ago. I used it out on the Colorado River and while a total blast it was not the ideal location due to the river current. I didn't have an interest locally since I still have Alice Gale (15ft Ebihen) in the garage for local sailing. I still have a picture of the punt on my desk, and my blog site is still active. It has been a treat to read your building blog. Great memories, and I recommend this as a great project if you have a local environment to support this type of sailing.
Fore and aft balance is by far the most important element in sailing these boats, it’s pretty much everything in fact. The guys in Mersea sail them down wind with no steering at all, just sail trim and balance, it’s brilliant! If I can find the video I’ll post it here.
It’s such a shame you never got on with the boat. I think they take a mental shift many sailors are unwilling to make, it’s just a completely different type and experience of sailing. Not for everyone, I guess. Best to sell it before modifying it, you won’t improve on it.
How many times have you sailed it, Paul? Sure, leeway is a factor, but these are not performance racing boats. The compromises are well worth it though when you step out of the boat and don’t get your socks wet in water you were just sailing in. I’m guessing you just don’t have it heeled over enough, or your fore and aft balance might be off. Some people just can accept the compromises and try to improve the performance...it never works.
I am referenced in this blog post as a builder(Stan Richards). You can link to my original blog through the link attached to my name. Also I have a YouTube video
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=qMAbwN8it4s
Wazzup, Stan!!! Long time! Are you still sailing your punt? I’ve been sailing mine for almost 14 years now. ☺️
The problem I’ve found with most 2x4s these days is that even if they are arrow straight when you pick them, they are unlikely to stay that way for long. Might be worth building plywood I-beams, especially if you are likely to build more than a single boat. I have a local supplier that carries “shop” grade plywood (not approved for structural use in buildings)for a decent price that works well for such things.
Great photos...giving confidence to wavering boat builders like myself...
Hi Rusty, I sold my punt a few years ago. I used it out on the Colorado River and while a total blast it was not the ideal location due to the river current. I didn't have an interest locally since I still have Alice Gale (15ft Ebihen) in the garage for local sailing. I still have a picture of the punt on my desk, and my blog site is still active. It has been a treat to read your building blog. Great memories, and I recommend this as a great project if you have a local environment to support this type of sailing.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjS75-t_emDAxUjLUQIHQ2hCFoQFnoECBMQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fduckpunt.wordpress.com%2F&usg=AOvVaw3ZW0NqYueU80OHqk3-ZRus&opi=89978449
Does it have chine runners like Paradox?
Nope, just the hard chine.
You might want to try using a Japanese pull saw for cutting out the plywood panels. Tajima makes very affordable models.
Thanks! This blog is from 2012, though, I’ve learned a lot since then. And yes, I love Japanese saws. 😍
Fore and aft balance is by far the most important element in sailing these boats, it’s pretty much everything in fact. The guys in Mersea sail them down wind with no steering at all, just sail trim and balance, it’s brilliant! If I can find the video I’ll post it here.
It’s such a shame you never got on with the boat. I think they take a mental shift many sailors are unwilling to make, it’s just a completely different type and experience of sailing. Not for everyone, I guess. Best to sell it before modifying it, you won’t improve on it.
How many times have you sailed it, Paul? Sure, leeway is a factor, but these are not performance racing boats. The compromises are well worth it though when you step out of the boat and don’t get your socks wet in water you were just sailing in. I’m guessing you just don’t have it heeled over enough, or your fore and aft balance might be off. Some people just can accept the compromises and try to improve the performance...it never works.