: I am hoping to get some feedback on sizing the loom for a Greenland paddle. I
: have the recommended sizing methods from the 'experts', (thanks to Ross
: Leidy's great webpage !) , but I hope to hear from some people who have
: built/used this paddle. My question is, how do you find the narrower grip?
: I see that the 'correct' grip is to hold the shoulder with the OK formed
: by the thumb and first finger, but wonder how many of you find this
: comfortable, or do you tend to wish you had made the loom a bit longer to
: allow both hands to fit within the length of the loom itself? I have never
: tried one, but wonder if I would find it more comfortable with the outside
: of my hands at the shoulders. I will be gluing up the blank in the next
: day or two and would like to hear any comments, one way or the other.

: Thanks,

: Kelly

I have built a couple of greenland paddles according to the directions of Chuck Holst. The loom is the width of my shoulders (18"). The length is what I can reach straight up fingertips curled over the top of the paddle (87"). The width of the blades is what I can grip comfortably with my hand in a C (3"). This size paddle works fine for me on my Artic Tern. Since I've been padding Greenland style (this year) I'll never go back to euro. For me it's the way a kayak is meant to be paddled. I also agree with Greg Stamer That native Greenlanders are the keepers of the tradition. They are the paddlers I look to for technique and guidance. Most Greenlanders seem to have a more open style that is more relaxed and natural than some stateside "teachers" advocate. Watching the Rolling with Maligiaq videotape I admire his understanding of the kayak.