Like others. I don't have first hand experience. But I think it won't affect his ability at all. I too often take my out of the equation, to give it a rest from the vice like grip I tend to do. I have calluses at the base of my thumb from my crazy grip. Palming the paddle is always a nice change of pace. I would not even consider this an issue.

Can't wait for the weather to get warm again. (I'm in Wisconsin)

Jerry

: Hello everyone,
: I have been asked by one of my friends to ask a question on
: building/paddling forums:

: Q: Will the lack of a left thumb affect ability to paddle with a
: Greenland paddle?

: Some background:
: My friend and paddling partner, who exclusively uses Greenland
: paddles with his handmade kayaks (Merganser, Outer Island), was
: working in his yard on a project when the power saw hit
: something in the wood, jumped and cut off his LEFT thumb, just
: above the knuckle at the base of the thumb. He has a small knob
: remaining and is concerned this will affect his paddling
: ability.

: Any answers appreciated and I will forward all replies to him over
: the next few days.

: Thanks!