: One thing that I've been told and I have noticed makes a difference
: to performance is edge thickness. I'd suggest trying one with
: "moderately" sharp edges. I find they have less
: tendency to flutter (they shouldn't if used correctly) and seem
: to grip the water better.

: Any comments from other users?

I've also found I enjoy sharper edges for general paddling than Bob's appear to be from this photo, but I think the beauty of this paddle might offset any possible performance trade-offs... : )
I'd second the suggestion to try sharper edges, and a bit fuller convex shape to the blades towards the tips on the next one, this one looks perhaps a bit flat. I carved 8 or 10 maybe, from cheap pine 2x4s and laminations, then I finally had to break down and buy one from Don Beale before I really started to get a good feel for one example of a good GP shape that I could actually hold and use. Don's paddle taught me to keep the root of the blades very full and round so they fill the palm. I'd been making mine too flat through the shoulder, a common mistake I think. I was finding it actually strained my fingers after a couple hours, and that resolved when I started making mine fuller there.