Re: [Paddlewise] Paddle questions for folders (boats that is)

FoldingBoats_at_aol.com wrote:

> .Rcgibbert_at_aol.com and > jwd_at_phonogram.net write:
> >
> > ... I'm looking for some recommendations for break-down paddles for travel
> > and use with folding kayaks......... I'm most interested in a four-piece
> > break-down model.
> >
> > ...
>
> RalphH:......., but does anyone have
> experience with the Mitchell 4-piece paddles? (Pakboats offer them as
> optional accessories with their Puffins; I've only used them briefly a couple
> of times.)

I ordered one of the Mitchell four piece from Pakboats this past spring and have
used it with two or three different models of folding kayaks this summer. I liked
the way it worked just fine.

I think it is well made paddle with no play in the joints , it seems to lock
together quite nicely. Yet I have had no problems getting it apart at the end of
the day. And when taken apart it fits quite nicely in the bag of the Feathercraft
Java sot for which I originally ordered it. My other models of folding kayak all
pack into bags long enough to fit inside a standard 2 piece paddle.

That being said . When I ordered my paddle I seem to recall that Alv said he only
had a few of them left and he would be offering a different paddle in the future
because Mitchell had changed the way they were making the blade attachment to the
end of the shaft which would make it difficult or impossible to continue  make it
in a four piece model. So I think they may no longer be available. I think the
four piece Mitchell was not a standard paddle offered by Mitchell but was instead
a special model made for Pakboats. But, if you might be interested don't trust my
memory. Check with Pakboats. Or Mitchell.

Regards,

David

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