I have shaped a handful of mini simmons with more of the classic rounded fins. I’ve got a 4’10 and 5’2 in the bay and want to try the more traditional Lis keels. My question is with the trailing edge, what is going to be the effect on the ride/performance if it is very vertical(90 degree), compared to the Lis or Gephart template that has a little more curve in the top and rounded trailing edge? Also, leaving the top edge only slightly rounded(more shark fin look, see pic) compared to the Lis template?
I prefer straight edge keels on fish boards, i find them more "loose". I do have a twin keel eggy board, which i think needs some more rakey keels, as the combo of round tail, and straight edge keels is a little too slippery IMHO, and i feel i need to nurse some turns. Still fun though!
How about the tips on those in the pic? Would you round them more or will there be a difference? This simmons is going to be 5’2 x23 x2.9, so REALLY wide…I’m 6’1 195+ with a 5/4 wetsuit. Looking for best combo of drive and turnability.
Also the continued decision of single or double foils? I have only done singles on all my boards so far, but foiled up a double set today…
You could round them a little bit, might be easier to glass haha, but i think you could leave them if you wanted. Foil is preferance. I think most go single foil, but some do double also, so up to you really.
I think you should foil those fins a lot more judging by the large area that does not show the wood bands. Looks like a lot of flat area from the tiny picture. With that template I’d go double foil. Mike
Good comment on the flat area. I actually went out this morning and started working more on them thinking the same thing. My projects usually progress slowly, so I get to a “completed” phase about 10 times:) I always figure I can take more off after I leave it sitting for a little while, but putting it back on is a little tough!
What would be your reasoning for going with the double foil on this particular template? Thanks!
double foils on all my mini shapes, they feel better and just flow nicely imho…start with the template as you like it, can easily take a bit off and modify as you go, plus you’ll learn what does what as you adjust them…
if you put plugs in your board , then you can try as many different shaped keels and / or "half moon " fins / keels , as you can make ! [ to provide variety.]
What was the wood you used for your keels , John ? It looks white ? [ on my computer screen at least ]
Ben, the wood is “Finnish Birch”. It is a very light colored wood, but definitely not white. John Cherry helped me track it down on Woodcraft.com(I also have a store close to me here in Oregon).
I love the idea of the fin boxes, just don’t know how skilled I am to make the fins with tabs also. I guess that means I need to give it a go! Progression in shaping is a lot like surfing I guess, you have to go for it and not be afraid to mess up:) I’ve done plenty of messing up, but always enjoy the end product. later
Progression in shaping is a lot like surfing I guess, you have to go for it and not be afraid to mess up:) I've done plenty of messing up, but always enjoy the end product. "
.... well said !
that's the story of me , and my fin experiments , over the years , too ....
