: ...yes, there is a bit of the technical in the itch. But I have decided to
: use only three pieces to laminate from, and am thinking about extending
: the hollow at least eight inches into each blade. Also, no extra strips
: for toughness or decoration are thus included. But I think I'll initially
: make it thick in the middle and along the edges, to reduce flutter and for
: comfort of the grip. Only a light coat of oil for a finish.

Risto,

I hope that I am not coming across as a "wet blanket". I prefer to make a simple paddle, well .... simply. I am perhaps, a bit out-of-place, among all the "strippers" who build such beautiful kayaks and paddles on this list, but I hope the "minimalist" viewpoint is still worthwhile to post here.

I find a paddle with a thicker blade, not necessarily thicker edges to help with flutter. You may find as I did that sharper edges give a more solid "bite" and flutter can be controlled easily with technique.

Your idea of a "sacrificial" paddle is a good one. It takes a bit of tweaking to find the best paddle dimensions and characteristics for you. If the paddle is ruined in the process you will have learned some valuable lessons for your next. Enjoy your project!

Greg Stamer
Orlando, Florida