July 12, 2002

Follow up on paddle repair

Just to follow up on the Swift paddle I sent in for repair to Eddyline:

I had sent along a note asking them to replace the entire shaft if the current shafts were stronger then the one I sent back rather than just the broken half. This raised the price from $62 to $99 (including shipping).

The new shaft is noticeably more ovaled than the old shaft. By replacing both halves it also eliminated the imbalance that would be created by the splice to the blade (an additional 1 oz on each side).

I didn't think I would notice the additional 2 ounces, but I do. Maybe because I've been using the featherweight kayakstore.com paddles, the balance I remember seems to have changed. I'll have to paddle with it a while.

Anyhow, it is good to get my Swift back for play in the surf. The big blade is great for punching through waves and extra support when needed. I'm sure I'm going to like the increased index oval on the shaft and may make learning to paddle feathered a little easier.

Woody