>>>>>We're building our first Shearwater 16 Hybrid. All was going well until we got to gluing the sheer clamp to the hull side. Two issues: First, the sheer clamp is considerably longer that the side. Is this supposed to be this way? >>>>>>>

Right, the sheer clamps are a stock length.  There's a photo of the sheer clamp trimmed to length on the bottom of Page 30.

>>>>>Second, it is virtually impossible to bend the sheer clamp to follow the contours of the top of the side panel--the sheer clamp is far too stiff. Is it possible that we were sent sheer clamps for a different kit? Or are we just doing something wrong?>>>>

The sheer clamps in a Shearwater Hybrid should be 1/2" x 3/4", the wooden equivalent of a noodle.  It does take two people and a pile of spring clamps, but those stringers will definitely take the bend.

Here's the sheer clamp glue up on my wife's SW16h

Dan

Thank you! I think we can make it work with more clamps. And then some more clamps.