Steering
Model #110
$169.00
Width: 9 1/2" - 10"
Type: Long Blade 22"
Angle: 5 degree
Best for: OC6
Weight: 20-23 oz
A good steering blade should hug the side of the canoe quickly and not slip. If the blade does not bite onto the side of the hull quickly, there will be a delay in correcting the direction the canoe. The shape and contour of the leading edge of the blade and the center rib is the most important part of a steering paddle.
At approximately 20-23 oz. our blade was intentionally made longer in length than the average steering blade. The rule of thumb is to choose a larger blade for larger swells. Under calmer conditions, steersmen may choose smaller lighter blades in order to put in more strokes. A good recommendation is to choose a steering blade about an inch longer than your regular paddle to account for the changing water level at the steersman's seat. On big days choose a paddle primarily for steering not so much paddling. Although the paddle shown here is natural wood with a clear finish, all paddles come in a choice of colors, if so desired.
Please click on the numbers on the various parts of the paddle to find out more information.
T-Top
The t-top is ergonomically titled forward 5 degrees to fit into your palm at the point of attack when it is under the most pressure. A good fit ensures less pressure on the nerves. It is built from 3 layers of laminated wood that matches the grain of the shaft.
Shaft
The shaft is built with three layers of hardwood laminated together for maximum strength. The base of the shaft starts with an oval shape and tapers to a round shape at the t-top
Blade
The blade is built from lightweight redwood strips mixed with hardwood and blended for the best weight to strength ratio. It is flat on the pulling face and slightly oval on the trailing face to decrease cavitations thus increasing the bite.
Edge
The edges are made of hard maple wood inserted ¾ of an inch deep all around the blade to protect it chafing and shredding against the gunnels and canvas. It also gives the paddle a pleasing appearance.
Tip
The tip is ever so slightly curved to enter the water at the correct angle and made of the same hard maple wood as the edges. It is inlaid across the bottom of the blade to protect it against dings.
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