I designed the paddle to be a storm stick, but then again, all my paddles are short. I primarily use a 169cm werner whitewater paddle unless im doing over 15mi.

I used 4oz unidirectional carbon... one layer on blades, 3 or 4 layers on shaft.

Strength? The 13oz paddle is defiantly a light-duty paddle. I tried really really cranking on it a few times and heard a slight crackle, however no visible damage nor any noticeable weakness.

Thanks for the words Abercrombie!
Jason