basic OC-1 paddle recommendation

zeke · Post by **zeke** » Mon Oct 13, 2008 2:42 am

I've searched the forum but seem to only be able to find info on high end paddles. I'm getting ready to order my first paddle for OC-1 and need advice on a decent quality paddle that isn't too expensive.

ezwater · Post by **ezwater** » Mon Oct 13, 2008 2:55 am

Check the Werner offerings. Or, I have three skillfully repaired Norse paddles at real reasonable prices........

c1swim · Post by **c1swim** » Mon Oct 13, 2008 4:05 am

Call Sawyer paddles and oars. They are in Oregon, if I remember correctly. (541-535-3606)
They will make you a nice, all wood; whitewater paddle w/ a great T-grip and Dynel tip for around $100.
I think I paid $89 for my last one; a "C1 Whitewater" was the model. I also like the "Stingray" and "Rogue".
They are well balanced, strong, and light.
I don't think there is a better paddle, in that price range.

zeke · Post by **zeke** » Mon Oct 13, 2008 11:45 am

I like the idea of a wood paddle but was wondering about the strength and wear compared to glass.

Also advice for length selection would be appreciated. I'm 6'0" tall.

What's all this about cupped blade and bent shaft? Maybe if I don't know if doesn't matter?

This is for paddling my OC-1 Outrage.

Any experience with Aquabound? NOC is advertising a carbon model for about $100.

Thanks again for all the help.

mattm · Post by **mattm** » Mon Oct 13, 2008 1:41 pm

Aaron and I have 4 AB "edges" between us. Curved blade. I like them a lot, real tough, thick light shaft. I seem to keep going back to them, Aaron as well. I don't quite get the "oomph" out of them that I do with my Werner, but my elbows and back appreciate that fact.

MikeOC1 · Post by **MikeOC1** » Mon Oct 13, 2008 9:08 pm

I still use a werner rec canoe paddle, the yellow handled one. I think they are around $90. It's been good for me and has taken a beating. I'm 6' I use a 58" and also paddle an outrage. search the forums there are good threads on paddle length from months past.

Larry Horne · Post by **Larry Horne** » Tue Oct 14, 2008 12:55 am

You are very smart for not wanting to spend a fortune on your first paddle.
I haven't used the aquabound but i think they get good reveiws here. It seems like a decent paddle for a real fair price.
I'd get the fiberglass Aquabound Edge and save 30 bucks. it's only 4oz's more and it won't snap like the carbon sticks tend to do.....

pdown2 · Post by **pdown2** » Tue Oct 14, 2008 3:26 am

I use a fiberglass Aquabound Edge and love it. I've been on the same one for 3 season.......granted I need to buy another now though. Its been a great paddle for the price!

I'm 6'3" and use a 58" but I'm going to a 56" or maybe shorter for the next one, currently alternate between a Probe, Quake and a Centrifuge C1.

c1swim · Post by **c1swim** » Tue Oct 14, 2008 5:37 am

I have snapped 2 Werners (fglass) and have yet to break a Sawyer (knock on wood) haha!!
My oldest one does have a few chunks and dents, however.
Douglas Fir and White Ash are both very strong woods.
Most wooden gunwhales are White Ash.
NOTHING beats the feel of wood and it is easier on your joints than glass or carbon.
I'm 6'1" and use a 58" for OC1; a 54" for C1; and a 60" for OC2 (stern).
A bent shaft paddle is for flat water and I, personally don't care much for the dihedral blades.
Aquabound paddles are too floppy for my taste. I like my old Werner Bandit w/ wood blade and Tgrip, but I don't believe they make them like that anymore.
Hope this helps.

Paddle Power · Post by **Paddle Power** » Tue Oct 14, 2008 9:46 pm

I have a couple of the Aquabound Edge sticks, both are the carbon version that I greatly prefer over/to the fiberglass model, which I find has too flexible.

At 6 feet tall, I'd say something around 59" or so. Try out different lengths before cutting a shaft or buying a set length.

gumpy · Post by **gumpy** » Tue Oct 14, 2008 10:38 pm

I also paddle an Outrage, I'm 5'10", and I love my 58" Aquabound Edge carbon paddle. The little bit of flex it has keeps my old shoulders from ripping out, and the price was right, too. I've used paddles of double the price and still like the AB edge. Try as many different paddles as you can before buying. There's lots of good choices, it's mostly a matter of personal preference. Happy hunting.