: I think a 3-piece would be ideal, as it provides not only the two options of
: full-length and "storm" length, but also the possibility of
: different length looms for different sized people or boats. You could have
: a narrow loom for your SOF and a wider loom for a wider boat. The same
: paddle could fit several sized paddlers with different loom length needs.
: As for weight, if it's carbon fiber, it should be possible to keep it down
: to ~30 oz. or less, though weight isn't critical. The loom shape should be
: flat sides with rounded edges, with dimensions of 1.5" x 1.25".
: In "storm" configuration, the loom should be 3"-4"
: long, with loom inserts to create lengths from 18"-24". I would
: suggest a blade width of 3.5", similar to paddles made from 2x4s. The
: overall length with a 21"-22" loom should be ~86". This
: should give the paddle enough versatility to fit most average sized
: paddlers, which is what you would need to get the business off the ground.

: Of course, once this product does well enough to support more models, a
: downsized version with a smaller loom (1.25" x 1.0") and
: narrower (3.0 - 3.25" wide), shorter blades should be offered. A
: longer-bladed version for taller paddlers could be added as well.
: Ultimately, the product line could consist of the two loom sizes in a
: variety of lengths, plus several blade configurations for each, that
: paddlers could purchase in a mix-and-match manner.

Sorry Brian

I'm not going into business....however, these are the questions that never get posted and asked.

Decisions of what to produce as far as availiable paddles for the existing market and does it pay for a business are poundered everyday and the answers are guessed at without ever asking the public.

there are many lerkers on this and other boards....and they ask these questions amongst themselves.

I am interested in the answers to find out if it is even worth my time to make a few paddles to be sold at the auctions at a few of the greenland gatherings I tend to go to . The time and expence so far seems to go way beyond what anyone is willing to pay (other than myself)

it tells me that rather than spend all the time and expence to produce something of this magnitude for the auction....more profit for the renual of the gatherings would probably be realized by just spending a couple of afternoons in the sunshine making a few one piece paddles to sell....or maybe a harpoon or a couple of Norsaks.

Best Wishes
Roy