Drift boat oar length? and other questions?

[BentMetal]

One quick question: I was going to pick up some replacement oars on my boat, we've had the other ones a long time, 10 or 12 years.

Is there really any difference between 9' and 9.5' lengths? Will 6 inches longer make any difference at all? I have a 16 foot wide bottom Fish-rite, and am about 6'-1" myself. Thanks again for any help.

Also, What are all the options for oars: I did a search of the archives, and am more confused now than before.

You have your basic Sawyer wood oars - some call them Sawyer's lites.

You also have your composites - the cataracts being the main brand.

Now with these two main brands, you can get standard, and counter balanced oars. How much cost will the counter balancing be . . . and what does it do for rowing the boat, is it worth it.

But after this, it sounds like there are all kinds of options . . . On a previous post, most people were raving about oars where you can change/replace blades.

Most of the shops in the mid-valley seem to carry one type of oar and thats it. Is there someplace maybe in portland that has a good selection that can explain pros, cons, costs and use for all these oars. Or maybe, I should contact the factory. Any thoughts on this?

[ 03-06-2004, 03:59 PM: Message edited by: BentMetal ]

[ampersat]

Since I've got a "classic" boat with wood trim, I like the look of my wood Sawyer Feather Lites and they row well enough for me.

However, if I were to have a Clacka or any of the tin boats, I'd go with composite oars. The counter balances are just collars that clamp onto the oar between the handle and the oarlock and can be added anytime. Being able to swap out a blade if you break a tip is a definite plus.

As for the length, well that depends. What are you rowing with now? A wide bottom boat will require a slightly longer oar than other boats. Maybe you could float with someone who has the type of oars you are considering and who would be nice enough to let you borrow their sticks for some light rowing around. Maybe six inches does make that much of a difference, maybe it doesn't. Only way to know is to try it out.

[Amahnee]

I have a set of 9' Sawyer composites I'll sell you for $190. Let me know.

[Knot in leader]

I had a pair of 9'6" cataract oars I used on my fish-rite boat.They were ok but a little long I thought.I went with 9ft and I love them.They are lighter and work really well.Get the floating blades also.


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