I figured someone has run across a research paper of some level that goes into the actual design of a paddle blade in water.

All the other stuff also makes as much or more of difference too, I agree.

The mechanics of a blade pulled through water has had to have been studied many times over. The engineer in me doesn't want to us the "shotgun" approach to design. I would rather start with a good design and then improve upon it than go hit-or-miss for a first, good design...

I'll keep looking.
Thanks Tim