Planning to build a couple boards this summer to get ready for next winter…
Plan to use USBlanks 6’7"P to make a 6’6" stepup and the 7’8"EA to make a 7’6" minigun. I want the 6’6" to surf similar to my usual 6’0" (red foam and 4+4 / 4 glassing) but with more paddle power. The 7’6" will be for larger reefs (sometimes top-to-bottom) that may have some texture.
On the 6’6", I am thinking:
Red foam and 6+4 deck and either 6 or 4+4 bottom.
On the 7’6", I am thinking of doing either the same glass schedule but using blue foam or use red foam and add a layer of 4oz on both sides.
Looking for thoughts and input. I will be using RR epoxy.
Is blue denser than red? I have a couple daily drivers with red, and resin research, and they’re holding up really well. I tried the classic density and it felt too heavy, but can’t recall if I’ve used blue.
Your glassing schedule sounds good, I like mine with a bit more glass than most, so I do 6 + 4 plus deck patch, but 6+4 deck and 4+4 bottom, (or 6 with tail patch), sounds plenty good.
I think heavier is good for winter boards. Hard off shore wind. South wind cross chop from approaching winter storms. Maintains momentum once you hop up and start driving it. Maintains momentum when you’re paddling trying to get into the long interval swells. I’d go 6-6-6 on the 7-6. Plus, you’re getting to old for those light weight ‘kids’ boards… Mike
Chrisp - with your choice of resin I would go blue on both blanks, 4+4 deck and 6 bottom on the 6’6" and 6+4 deck, 6 oz. bottom on the 7’6". They will be a little heavier but will hold up a lot better - you may even want to put a little patch under your front foot on the 6’6". Just my take. I’ve made a lot of 7’ semi-guns with 4+4 decks and they all dented to hell because of the extra force from turns on more powerful waves.
150 lbs. Years ago Clark experimented and found higher density blanks gave more strength than heavier glass jobs, ounce for ounce… I wouldn’t do double layer bottoms - stay close to what the industry standards have become - it’s all been worked out. S cloth is good mixed with a layer of another type as it’s stiff - good on the deck. I stay with my earlier suggestions - also try to talk to a local experienced glasser - good luck.