I agree, having sailed a number of other boats, I think my M-15 in stock condition, the way Jerry built it, is fine, and content with it the way it is, stock rudder and all. However, I will admit to having chewed up my rudder in the propeller once, and having added a vent to the front of the cabin. Steve M- 15 # 335 South Puget Sound ----- Original Message ----- From: "David Grah" <d_b_grah@yahoo.com> To: <montgomery_boats@mailman.xmission.com> Sent: Saturday, February 09, 2013 4:17 PM Subject: M_Boats: Montgomery 15 Rudder The discussion about rudders prompts me to comment. I admit I only really know our boat, which I believe uses a stock rudder, but I can't imagine any way to improve it. On our boat the rudder is raised and lowered by applying an up-and-down motion to the tiller. It is easy to quickly put the rudder up or down or even put it halfway if you hold the tiller right. If we hit rocks or the bottom the rudder kicks up on its own so it doesn't tear itself out of the boat. As far as I know, the rudder has never come near our propeller. It sounds like the Ida rudder setup would be similar but slower to get up or down. I would think a rudder that retracts straight up wouldn't allow protection from running into things. Anyway, my thoughts. I like the stock rudder. David Grah Montgomery 15 Bishop California