(no subject)

>While we are on the subject of paddle float rescues and different paddles, 
>has anyone any experience using a Greenland paddle with a paddle float, 
>particularly for a re-enter and roll?  I am thinking of getting a Greenland 
>paddle because I think they are lovely, but have been hesitant because my 
>braces are only so so at best, and had not considered the paddlefloat might 
>be an issue.  

Although I have reliable rolling skills, I still practice paddlefloat
rescues and other backup rescues with my Greenland paddles. A two-chambered
inflatable float, with an ample volume of air, will hold the narrow blade
securely. For more security (less risk of the paddle slipping out of the
float) you could make a solid float very easily, with only a small, deep
slit to accept the blade. With the float in place it is very easy to
perform a reenter-and-roll by holding the paddle extended (standard
Greenland roll).

Many Greenland paddles have a surprising amount of buoyancy, much more than
common sense would dictate. The solid cedar paddles that I use have enough
floatation that, with practice, you can succeed with outrigger reentries in
calm conditions, using only the paddle (no paddlefloat). I wouldn't use
this approach in rough weather, but it is a fun training exercise. If your
braces are marginal you will discover that, for rolling or bracing, the
paddles generate strong lift when swept across (or just under) the surface,
without a tendency to dive. Hopefully these features will help you to
develop a reliable roll and braces, allowing you to move paddlefloat
techniques to your backup arsenal.

Greg Stamer
Orlando, Florida
http://www.magicnet.net/~gstamer/QK.html

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