Mark, To make the GP blade edges more rugged, I orient the grain in the blades parallel with the blade face. That way the grain runs along the blade edge rather than having the stair step effect when the grain runs perpendicular, which causes more edge exposure to the softer areas between the rings. I also harden the wood a bit by rubbing the side of a screw driver on the edges before applying the epoxy, which also helps some with making the paddle more rugged. However, I think the spruce is a bit more dent resistant than WRC. I also don't think my way of making a GP would hold up very well to ice, but that's not a concern here in Southern California. More details on how I make my GPs are at: http://www.rollordrown.com/kayak/woodgp.html Duane Goffma_at_aol.com wrote: I have a question on how you are protecting the edges. You mention a laminate; I'd like to know what you are using on the edge and how you are attaching it. I'm currently using unprotected WRC which gets banged up very easily, particularly now that it is ice season again. *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Wed Nov 28 2007 - 15:30:44 PST
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