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Author	Message Text
KarlBAndersen1	03/22/2012 02:08PM   I'm a first time paddle builder, yet, not unfamiliar with building things, so I don't need basic construction methods advice. What I do need, however, are some criteria on dimensions. I've already done the basic, "remove everything that doesn't look like a paddle" actions, but am now in final stock removal actions. I've read how the edges of the blade should be in the 1/4" range. For those of you who have first-hand experience, how far do you carry that 1/4" INTO the blade field, or do you go directly from that 1/4" to a gradually increasing thickness toward the center line, and if so, how thick do you end up in the center from side to side, and in the direction of the throat, how thick do you end up in the area that would still qualify as the blade? I know there's a balance to be reached between mass/weight and strength, not to heavy, yet strong enough to avoid using the spare paddle. I will glass and epoxy when done. What range of weight would be acceptable? I'm about 30 ounces now and still have plenty of mass to remove. My blade and handle are a mixture of walnut, ash, mahogany and soft maple. I do appreciate all of your experienced advice. I more often find myself GIVING advice in my chosen field, so asking for advice is sort of relaxing. Thanks.
HighPlainsDrifter	03/22/2012 04:19PM   no advice, just a complement. Nice job. Gil Gilpatrick's book has a section on paddles. His blade is 1/4" and he tapers the edge to 1/8" and fiberglasses (West System epoxy) both sides of the blade. He has a weight of 30 oz (complete with fiberglass) paddle and seat building are on my radar
Moonman	03/22/2012 05:32PM   Your paddle looks great. Probably the best source for the home paddle builder is the Graham Warren - David Gidmark book on paddle making. If using hardwood as you are, you can go down to 1/16" on the edges but maybe 1/8" might be best to start, you can always take it down a bit after using and evaluating. In the middle of the blade, near the spine area, around 3/8" is standard. Those dimensions are from the Warren and Gidmark book. Hope that helps. Moonman.
Wables	03/24/2012 12:33AM   quote HighPlainsDrifter: "no advice, just a complement. Nice job. Gil Gilpatrick's book has a section on paddles. His blade is 1/4" and he tapers the edge to 1/8" and fiberglasses (West System epoxy) both sides of the blade. He has a weight of 30 oz (complete with fiberglass) paddle and seat building are on my radar" HPD, Seat building is a MUST DO! It really isn't that hard with Gilpatrick's advice. Karl, Nice work! I have built and restored several paddles in the past few years. If you are going to fiberglass the blade, thinner is better! Keep at it! I am coming to a crossroads this year on whether to keep building boats to try to sell them, or start making more paddles. I don't know what the final outcome will be, but the paddles are addictive!
KarlBAndersen1	03/24/2012 08:45AM   I certainly do appreciate all the excellent advice, and I undersatnd addictions quite well. Right now I'm sitting at a knife show in Wisconsin thinking about that paddle! I'll jump back on it on Monday. Thanks a bunch.