: Used the 4 @ 5.7oz lay-up for my first paddle, but folded a blade in the
: process of a very strong sweep (I'm 185 lbs in a 42lbs 17' Guillemot,
: attempting to turn the boat 90 degs with one stroke...oops). Guessing the
: failure had more to do w/ the quality of my taping/welding of the quarters
: together (got in a hurry), rather than the strength of the lay-up.

Show us some photos, please!

I wonder if the fold had something to do with the shape of the blade. I have a pretty fair ridge running down mine, and I'm amazed how much pressure and weight I have put on the paddle.