Decision time - Resin

[smilinmatt]

I've used all the epoxies that you've mentioned, except TotalBoat. The only one that stands out is West Systems. It blushes horribly and costs more than twice anything else. I built two boats from Bateau (2002 G12 and 2009 OB19) both with System 3 epoxy. I'm in the process of rebuilding a 23' Sceptre from the stringers up, and I'm using RAKA epoxy.

I'd say the only drawback with the RAKA is that the resin and hardener are almost the same color, so you just need to make sure you don't mix them up.

I also built a casting deck on the front of a 13' Whaler using polyester resin and glass to tie it in. After I was done, I was able to peel the deck off the boat by hand. Last time I used polyester.

Since you'll be buying the epoxy in "bulk", there isn't much cost difference between epoxy and polyester. Polyester also has a short shelf life, so if your project takes longer than expected, you could end up spending more on polyester than epoxy.

Also make sure the glass you use is compatible with epoxy. That won't be a problem if you're sourcing them together, but there is glass with binders that are only dissolved by polyester.