: Since I have a nice, hand crafted kayak, I would like to build my own paddle.
: What wood do you use for the shaft? I was thinking of some leftover cherry
: and pine for the blades, but don't really know what to use for the shaft.
: Maybe 3 pieces of wood laminated together to increase strength. Do I glass
: the shaft while I glass the blades?

: Those of you who have build a greenland style paddle: what did you use for
: wood? I have the plans for one, but once again, I want a light paddle that
: is strong. One idea I had was a center piece made out of spruce with two
: darder woods laminated on either side and then start cutting the paddle.

: Anyone ever make a laminated shaft with holes in the center piece to lighten
: it up a little? Strength would not be compromised in the center piece
: (minimal stresses).

: I'm in the NE, so getting sitka spruce and the like is very costly. Is pine
: o.k.?

: Any help is appreciated.

I am in NE as well and sitka spruce is tough to find. You are right - lots of fairly clear pine. Try some cedar for the greenland style. maybe some laminates. check out ross leidys or shawn bakers pages as they both have paddles with drilled out shafts.

pete czerpak albany, ny