> When paddlers have had there wood
> paddles break, where did they break? I am especially interested in
> Greenland style paddles.

I've never broken one of my Greenland's, but I have watched others break. Everyone I've seen break (2) has broken at the transition between the loom and the root of the blade. Someone explained to me why this happens, but it went over my head.

I'm not sure my paddles are any stronger, but I do make mine with two 1x4 boards epoxied together to make a 2x4 where the other paddles I've seen break have been made from a solid piece.

I learned to roll with a paddle built to Chuck Holst(sp) plans and carved from douglas fir. I don't think it was possible to break that paddle as I could do a pull up with it just supported on the ends. I've since thinned it down a lot and could break it if tried. After learning to roll I started using a cedar Greenland. MUCH thinner than Chucks plans call for. This paddle flexes when paddling hard, and there is no way I would let a beginner learning how to roll use it since I'm sure they could snap it in half. When I roll with it there is almost no strain on it. I've seen it flex a bit during paddle float reentry too. I did chip the end last weekend when I whacked a ice floe with it.

Carry a durable spare and make your primary paddle as light as your paddling style and conditions allow. For me, a light paddle extends my paddling range and comfort level more than I expected it would.

YMMV,

Woody