I'm considering the purchase of a Salamander Keel Hauler [30-foot shock-absorbing 5/16" Kernmantle tow line with 1000-pound MFP polypropylene core, stainless steel carabiner, urethane coated 500-denier Cordura bag, webbing belt, quick-release cam-lock buckle]. I chose this one because of the company's reputation and cost [$55-70]. Was wondering what other paddlers were using for towing devices! Jim Tynan Pike Road AL *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Jim Tynan wrote: > > I'm considering the purchase of a Salamander Keel Hauler [30-foot > shock-absorbing 5/16" Kernmantle tow line with 1000-pound MFP polypropylene > core, stainless steel carabiner, urethane coated 500-denier Cordura bag, > webbing belt, quick-release cam-lock buckle]. I chose this one because of > the company's reputation and cost [$55-70]. > > Was wondering what other paddlers were using for towing devices! Sounds pretty heavy duty. I have a small nylon bag full of braided polypropelene rope (~50'). Rope cost $3.95 at Home Depot. I'm not much impressed by 1000-pound line for this purpose. If there's that much strain, I don't think I want to stay attached. Bag was surplus. The bag is set up like a WW throwrope, with a chunk of foam in the bottom and a drawstring on top. The back has two nylon webbing belt loops. I wear it on a 2" nylon belt with a quick-release cam lock buckle. A 1" webbing strap is sewed on the belt and then goes through the belt loops on the bag and terminates in another cam-lock. If I have to, I can drop the bag or the belt. When I paddle WW, I replace the bag with a throwbag with 5/16 rope. Steve *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
I have the whitewater variety Salamander and really like it; have thought about getting the SK version... Andree Hurley ACA Certified Instructor Trainer Coastal Kayaking Kayak Instruction Excellence - http://www.onwatersports.com *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Around the S.F. Bay area, we have two great sites which give wind and wave conditions: http://sfports.wr.usgs.gov/cgi-bin/wind/windbin.cgi?x=101&y=294 (gives current wind velocities all over the Bay, links to current tide heights, gusts, tidal currents, & more) & http://cdip.ucsd.edu/models/monterey.gif (shows a graphical view of the direction the ocean swells are coming from along with height and interval.) I don't see any links to other, similar services around the US. Are there similar sites for other popular areas? jerry. *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Jerry Hawkins wrote: > > Around the S.F. Bay area, we have two great sites which give wind and wave conditions: > I don't see any links to other, similar services around the US. Are there similar sites for other popular areas? Here's the page for the National Data Buoy Center buoys: http://seaboard.ndbc.noaa.gov/Maps/wrldmap.shtml -- Dave Kruger Astoria, OR *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
----- Original Message ----- From: "Jerry Hawkins" <jhawkins_at_cisco.com> > > I don't see any links to other, similar services around the US. Are there similar sites for other popular areas? > > jerry. Try www.nws.fsu.edu/buoy/ for data from buoys in the Caroline Islands, Hawaii, West Coast from Alaska south, Great Lakes, East Coast and British Isles. Allan Singleton *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Here is another web site for tides and currents on both coasts from MarineWeather.com: http://www.tides.com/mwpred.htm -- Chuck Landis clandis_at_gate.net http://www.gate.net/~clandis/ Dave Kruger wrote: > Jerry Hawkins wrote: > > > > Around the S.F. Bay area, we have two great sites which give wind and wave conditions: > > > I don't see any links to other, similar services around the US. Are there similar sites for other popular areas? > > Here's the page for the National Data Buoy Center buoys: > > http://seaboard.ndbc.noaa.gov/Maps/wrldmap.shtml > > -- > Dave Kruger > Astoria, OR > *************************************************************************** > PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not > to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission > Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net > Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net > Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ > *************************************************************************** *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Personally, I prefer a rescue style PFD with a quick release tow system. This puts the tow strap release right in front of your chest where it will NOT move. A waist belt can shift around and possibly tangle in skirt suspenders and PFD. I have never been bothered by a higher <than waist belt> center of pull that a chest belt might provide. I use the Kokatat 50' adjustable reel tow line. It works great, IMHO. I have towed clients quite a few times for too many miles to want to remember. Steve Scherrer Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe 250 NE Tomahawk Isle Dr Portland, OR 97217 Phone: 503.285.0464 Fax: 503.285.0106 Web site: http://www.aldercreek.com Email: acks_at_teleport.com ______________________________________________ ----- Original Message ----- From: "Jim Tynan" <kayakbound_at_worldnet.att.net> To: "Paddlewise" <paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net> Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2000 1:31 PM Subject: [Paddlewise] Towing device > I'm considering the purchase of a Salamander Keel Hauler [30-foot > shock-absorbing 5/16" Kernmantle tow line with 1000-pound MFP polypropylene > core, stainless steel carabiner, urethane coated 500-denier Cordura bag, > webbing belt, quick-release cam-lock buckle]. I chose this one because of > the company's reputation and cost [$55-70]. > > Was wondering what other paddlers were using for towing devices! > > > Jim Tynan > Pike Road AL > > *************************************************************************** > PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not > to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission > Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net > Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net > Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ > *************************************************************************** > *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
In a message dated 2/22/00 9:47:30 PM, kayakbound_at_worldnet.att.net writes: << Was wondering what other paddlers were using for towing devices! >> I own and use the KeelHauler by Salamander. It's a well designed and well thought out system that can be used as a straight tow or a throw bag depending on the circumstances. I personally prefer a throw bag / belt combo, but they cost a bit more to put together. Don't be put off by the 100# rating of the rope, what's more important is the diameter and to that end the 5/16th's stuff works well and is easy on the hands. Good luck with your research. Jed *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Good question! No, my boat doesn't have a rudder, but even so, I have to be careful not to let the line snag on the point of the stern or on my spare paddle (which I think I may move to the front). I can't imagine any way of avoiding even more trouble with a ruddered boat, regardless of the system you use. Freeing the tow line is worth practicing until it feels natural. You don't want to work out the mechanics in nasty conditions. If the rope is snagged to your left -- and the towed boat is off to the right of your stern -- then you have to twist around and grab the rope with the right hand to free it. Trying to free the rope with the hand opposite where the towed boat is can be a nightmare. I once came close to injuring a towee in practice by mking that mistake. Bob >Do you use your Pro with a ruddered boat? If so, ever experience any >interference? > >Jim > *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Jim Tynan wrote: > > I'm considering the purchase of a Salamander Keel Hauler [30-foot > shock-absorbing 5/16" Kernmantle tow line with 1000-pound MFP polypropylene > core, stainless steel carabiner, urethane coated 500-denier Cordura bag, > webbing belt, quick-release cam-lock buckle]. I chose this one because of > the company's reputation and cost [$55-70]. Salamander's Keel Hauler (Pro ?) should be a pretty good tow system (though at about $80, which I paid, makes it darned expensive), though I'll say up front that I haven't (yet) put the Keel Hauler Pro through what I put my former tow belt, a Salamander Retriever through. I will say that if you wind up towing in dumping wave conditions, that the Keel Hauler is the way to go due to the bungied end section (between the Retriever & Keel Hauler). As mentioned in a former recent post regarding the need for an offside roll, I wound up putting my tow belt to use during a BCU program. This was done in about 4' dumping storm surf - no pattern or easily noticeable gap between the shore break and shoal break which is where the incident took place. After the hookup to the two boats and capsize mishap (and subsequent roll), I paddled out to bring the line taught and then really poured on the steam to tow the two boats out of the surf zone. As could be expected, I was getting pulled backwards to some degree each time the two boats I was towing would be swept by a powerful wave. What I learned the hard way though, was that whenever the two boats were hit by dumpers with any slack in the line, that it would snap the line to such a degree as to back surf me up to half the distance back to them (at full line length)- paddle blade anchored firmly doing my best to deliver a forward stroke to the wave side. This went on about a half dozen times before the tow was given up on and the victim forced to swim his boat in. The reason for the snap back surfing, I believe, was due to the Salamander Retriever not having a bungied end to help absorb some of the excess shock. That's what makes the Keel Hauler worth the extra $$ in my view. Before I get flamed for not fully knowing my equipment before having to rely on it, let me say that I normally do test equipment out first, but could not (fully test it out) this time, given the time frame leading up to the course. A couple last things regarding tow belts: Keep the pack opened enough to pop the knot behind the biner out of the pack easily (opening the pack on water in conditions can be hard - esp. w/ gloves on) Attach some form of ball or loop to the cam buckle to find and open it quickly while wearing gloves. (If you're being dragged broached and inverted, I think you'll need to drop the tow belt before you can roll up) And (obviously), practice using it in rough conditions before you need to use it in rough conditions. just my two cents worth, Vince -looking forward to paddling liquid water again! & who wishes all his classrooms could have been more like that of the BCU *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
>Jim Tynan wrote: > > I'm considering the purchase of a Salamander Keel Hauler [30-foot > shock-absorbing 5/16" Kernmantle tow line with 1000-pound MFP polypropylene > core, stainless steel carabiner, urethane coated 500-denier Cordura bag, > webbing belt, quick-release cam-lock buckle]. I chose this one because of > the company's reputation and cost [$55-70]. > > Was wondering what other paddlers were using for towing devices! Hi, I don't use a belt attatchment, I have a cleat and fairlead on the back deck with a small bag velcroed in the right position on deck to hold the chain coiled rope in place. Chain coiling means it can be 2 different lengths as required. Most people around here (North Wales), including BCU qualified coach / intructor types discourage towing from the waist. Regards, Keith *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
> > The reason for the snap back surfing, I believe, was due to the > Salamander Retriever not having a bungied end to help absorb some of the > excess shock. That's what makes the Keel Hauler worth the extra $$ in > my view. I made a tow rope system based on the Salamander two line (45' and 15') with a couple of changes based on the list discussion some time back. The bags are independent and are velcroed on the belt to work as a throw bag, the belt is much heavier duty, the rope is thinner making the bags less bulky, I could choose the colors, and it cost less than 20.00 US. It is very simple to lash bungie on to the cord to provide the shock value, if you have any questions how, write me and I will send a digital image. -- : : Gabriel L Romeu : http://studiofurniture.com furniture from the workshop : http://members.xoom.com/gabrielR life as a tourist, daily journal : http://users.aol.com/romeugp paintings, photographs, etchings, objects *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Keith wrote: >I don't use a belt attatchment, I have a cleat and fairlead on the back >deck with a small bag velcroed in the right position on deck to hold the >chain >coiled rope in place. Chain coiling means it can be 2 different lengths >as required. Most people around here (North Wales), including BCU >qualified coach / intructor types discourage towing from the waist. ....I wonder if the contrast between belt vs.. cleat & fairlead systems is something like the "arguments" people have about which program is the better word processor. The preferences invariably come down to what people are comfortable with by virtue of experience. I've towed in training and a few times for real with a belt system (KeelHauler Pro), and never had a problem using a belt. People who use the clear/fairlead system can say the same. Practice makes either system work. Bob V *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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