As the stack of balsa in the corner of the workshop (read garage)is just too tempting, I’m planning on shaping a late '50’s or early '60’s style longboard. Perhaps scarf in just a bit more rocker and remove some of the core weight while I’m at it as my last balsa weighed in at maybe 55 pounds. A bit heavy I know, but the wood was nearly free.
Does anyone have a decent set of measurements to make a template for such a board? From 9’ to 9’8 max in length, based on a later-period Velzy outline perhaps? I’m actually pretty open to the template form, though partial to double-enders and refined pigs. It’ll get ridden, so I’d like to keep it as functional as possible while keeping the feeling as close as possible to an older board.
Wish I still had my '60 Hobie to take a template off of, but at the time 125 bucks (yeah, it’s been a while) towards my new board made a lot of difference!
I have an early 60’s stock Hobie with the following measurements:
Nose: 16"
Width: 22 1/2" (slightly behind center)
Tail: 15"
Tailblock: 4" (rounded square)
Thickness: 3" (mid), 1 3/4" (nose), 1 7/8" (tail)
Rocker: 4" nose, 4" tail (appears flatter up front with a more pronounced tail rocker even though they measure out about the same - i.e. apex back)
Bottom Curve: slight belly throughout
Rails: fat egg - no apparent edge, even in tail
Fin: Standard Rising Sun Skeg - 11" base, 9" high glassed on 1" from tailblock with rake overhanging the tailblock a couple of inches.
I can take a paper template and mail to you with more specific details. I picked up an old Weber at the same time I got the Hobie and it had the wide point back nearly 2 feet. I would call it more of a Malibu Pig - based on early Velzy design. The Hobie
has more of a balanced outline.
Here’s a link to a 9’6" balsa board I made, it’s not as “old-school” as you might be looking for but it does surf well and it’s a double-ender. If you’d like the template, just let me know.
http://www.swaylocks.com/resources/detail_page.cgi?ID=827
the fin on that board is so sweet. probably one of the best i have ever seen.
yep, Paul Jensen made that fin. Not only beautiful but it works well…
Keith, I had not seen your posted pic before. Very nice job!
Thanks for the kind response. I’d actually love a paper template of both, but forced to choose I’ll go with the Weber this time, that will go great with what I’m looking to do.
I’m currently shaping in France, so how would you like to go about it to keep it hassle-free for you? My folks are in San Diego, so I can also provide you with their address and they can forward it to me if that’s easier. Needless to say I’m happy to cover postage and all of that! Send me an mp or contact me at swartwoodsurf.com at your convenience to work that out.
Keith, your board is great. Not exactly what I wanted to do with the balsa this time, but it’d make a fun gunnier shape that I’d like to do with foam. If it’s no trouble, I’d be stoked on the template. Already said, but Paul’s stuff is always great and it’s nice to see some glassing from home!
I’ll post as the board comes along, heck I got motivated today and started the fin glue up already.
Many thanks.