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canoe paddle grip modifications

Thanks Turtle. You just reminded me to get my scrapers back. Loaning tools out should come with overdue fines for non-return.
 
Wanted to thank gumpas for this thread, as well as all who gave advice regarding removing finishes and oiling grips. Tried it and really like the change to an oiled finish. Took one out for a short outing, and it didn't take long to realize that I will be removing the factory finish on the rest. Hand to wood is a much better experience.
Amazing the difference in the hand to paddle feel. Just plain makes the tactile perception so much more enjoyable. Now to start experimenting with grip shape.
Thanks again.
 
I have one of their Gunflint straights - nice paddle. And it was nice not having to strip the grip ;)
 
Wanted to thank gumpas for this thread, as well as all who gave advice regarding removing finishes and oiling grips. Tried it and really like the change to an oiled finish. Took one out for a short outing, and it didn't take long to realize that I will be removing the factory finish on the rest. Hand to wood is a much better experience.
Amazing the difference in the hand to paddle feel. Just plain makes the tactile perception so much more enjoyable. Now to start experimenting with grip shape.
Thanks again.

Well boatstall, you made my day.

I was perfectly happy with my wood paddles until Turtle brought up burnishing. Now I apparently need to find a deer antler.

Also fun to hear that others have shortened wood paddles by taking out a section near the grip. I learned this method the hard way and I can say that taking a section from the middle is not a good idea.
 
Well thank you latremorej. It makes sense that a bottle could be used to burnish a paddle shaft.

I decided to try the Watco Teak Oil mentioned by Steve in Idaho on the gunnels of a boat that I am refinishing. So far I like it...it seems to be giving a lot of protection while also drying to the touch much quicker (2 days) than the green/white label Watco. It's not quite as "perfectly natural" as the gunnel lotion I mentioned before (which requires many light coats) but it's a nice compromise of natural look and feel while also being a durable finish.

For or a paddle grip or shaft I agree with Turtle. You really don't need any oil at all. Or use a touch of vegetable oil or the hemp oil from Badger paddles and I'd expect that you'd only need to give it a light oiling once.
 
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