what are the advantages and dis advatages to using epoxy? what do you use?
Thanks
Larry
In my opinion, the key is to use a finish that is not slick when wet, and that can take the bumps and dents that a paddle must absorb. An epoxy finish would score poorly on both measures, I suspect. I use Valspar Val-Oil, an oil-based sealer that penetrates the wood fairly well and dries – slowly – to a fairly hard but not slick finish. Some people use tung oil with a bit of japan dryer added. I’m sure there are other, similar finishes; the key is to protect the wood while leaving it resiliant and enabling you to get a good grip on the shaft but still be able to slide your hands along it.
Personally, I've never bothered to finish any of my paddles. I find I like the feel of the wood better without it, and I don't have slipperiness issues to worry about. I have never "worn out" a paddle before it broke anyway, so I don't worry about it at all.
If I get to the point where the wood is "aged" more than I like, I'll retire a paddle and hang it on the wall. Until then, they get used and probably abused. I don't worry too much about that though, because it only takes a day or two to build a new one and they're very inexpensive.
FrankP