WB did a story on the birds' mouth technique for building spars several months ago (can't remember the exact issue). The technique itself is old, and can be used for a large range of spar sizes. There was a formula given in the article for figuring the proper sized pieces for the particular size that you desire. There is also always an ad in the back of Classic Boat (UK pub), for an outfit that builds bird's mouth spars. I think that Shawn's idea to use this for a paddle shaft is a good one!

garland

: Shawn,

: The editors of WoodenBoat Magazine must be reading your posts! There is a
: cut-away picture of a hollow shaft oar built with the bird's mouth
: technique that you described last month. October issue, page 25.