I think I have some interest in my GP paddles. I have been making them of WRC with hardwood tips. Working on two with a light wood strip down the center for a couple of friends. I am expecting that is going to lead to some orders for paddles.

Problem is finding decent wood around here. My favorite wood yard stocks 2" x 4" and wider WRC but it rarely clear enough for a paddle. I would have a buy a large piece and rip it down and scarf smaller pieces to make a blank.

I do a lot of woodworking and suitable softwoods are hard to find. I was just at Lowes and was looking around to see what they had in stock. Found the usual three of four WRC boards out of the stack that I could laminate up. All the 2x4's are either SYP or some knotty fir/spruce that was not suitable.

Down the isle I noticed they have Douglas Fir. Not much in stock but it is clear and looked good. I have never worked with it, is it suitable?

I think with some shopping around I can probably find Redwood and Cypress. Never made a paddle out of either of these but I am assuming they would be good choices. Worked with Cypress a fair amount. Have some scrap but not enough for paddle.

While looking at the charts I see that basswood is very light, close to WRC. That is used in cabinets and I can find that fairly easy. Anyone ever tried it? I am betting it is not very rot resistant and would need to take good care of.