Survey to vets before I start my build

[slash2]

One tool that I use a lot is a Shinto Saw Rasp (CLC has them). It takes off wood very quickly but yet is pretty easy to control. The rough and fine sides work well to get to a decent surface that can then be sanded. So much better than those ‘cheese grater’ rasps.

[Creekboater]

yes on the shinto rasp. That's a good call for sure.

[slash2]

I was doing a lot of sanding this past weekend which gave me lots of time to think. I thought of a couple more tools that are really handy.
I have (and I suspect most of you also have) a battery powered oscillating tool which I find really handy to get into the spots the RA sander can’t reach. Instead of buying the triangular pads made for it, I cut them out of my RA discs. Not the most economical but it’s handy and I find when they stop being effective in the RA they still bite good enough in the oscillating. Also I can cut the pads a bit oversized which is really handy in corners.
I also bought a work platform, this makes it easy to get in and out of the boat and is good for sitting on when working on the sides. Also makes a good workbench. Just be careful to step into the center of it. Once I stepped close to the edge and almost toppled over.