It is the inset of the stem I am questioning (not how deep into the bottom panel).
1. Where the tip of the stem and tip of the shelves meet, you have to plane the leading edge, then the side of the stem and first 6" of shelves. What I anticipate is planing back a fair amount to get the shelves (and stem) beveled for good side panel fit. Why not leave the tip of the shelves proud by 1/2" as it seems less planing would be required.
2. Inset the stem into the bottom panel, I have removed quite a bit of wood on the stem to inset the stem but when eye balling the side panel fit to the stem I not sure what I am aiming for. I will take a couple pics when I get home and post.
I have searched for some pics of the stem here and the other sight but no closeup of the fitted stem.
Progress has been slow, side tracked again, go shrimping, lets go for ling cod and halibut, I will get he stem fitted then onto the transom then sides. Oh no razor clamming is open again...
Its tough sometimes making sacrifices when the weather is nice and fishing is good, not too much of a concern the rest of the year except when hunting time comes. haha.
Oh ya the working for a living thing!