Mike, your absolutely right that a traditional rib constructed fin planked would be lighter and strong as one made from solid Balsa. It may also resist warping and twisting better. In my case, the 3/8" Balsa used for the fin is pretty light. I don't mind sanding it to its final shape, I don't have to plank it and I don't have to add blocking for the hinges, so that's what I'm going with.
Tim, I got a laugh from that as well when I saw it. I'm glad I got all that sorted out because it was driving me batty!
Last edited by VincentJ; 03-22-2017 at 05:27 AM.