Last year, I moved to hardboots and plates on my current "all mountain-lite" board with the intention of getting a proper AM/carving board in 2012. That time has come () and have decided (after much reading and researching on this forum) on ordering a Donek. I've contacted Sean and we'll be talking next week. While I'm sure he'll steer me in the right direction, I'd also like the benefit of input from the BOL crew, particularly east coast riders used to narrow trails and less-than-hero snow.

I'm 6' 3", 200 lbs, intermediate carver. I'm not into speed, so not looking from something too long. Like everyone on the right coast, I encounter a fair amount of bumpy terrain (especially toward end of day), hence thinking of an AM set up rather than pure carving board.

When I carve, I tend to carve C's, but find I run out of trail width on all but the widest blue groomers in NY, VT, NJ, which are the states I typically ride in. I'm leaning toward an Axxess in a 172 length, but in a wider width to fit my 31.5mp boots and my 50/35 angles. However, the Axxess 172's SCR is 10-12, which (at least in my mind) seems a big diff from my current board, which has an SCR of 9. Is it a big deal in your opinion?

My concern is if I'm having a tough time getting 2 linked C's across a narrow trail with an SCR of 9, will something 10-12 be even more of a challenge, or does the added running length/flex pattern of a proper AM/carving board enable me to get more (higher) on edge and force a sharper radius turn? I read something to this effect on Carver's Almanac, but can't be sure.

Donek also makes the Freecarve Peterson in a 170 with an SCR of 10, but not sure which board (FC or Axxess) makes the better choice for me and the terrain I typically encounter.

Any advice is appreciated. I am very excited to finally complete the transition to a proper carving set up, so I want to be sure I have enough input for the right decision.

Thanks!