| For what it is worth, I have a couple of fiberglass Bandits and would not recommend them. They are low cost, but the blades wear out quickly on the bottom and on your on side. Also, the blade is a little smaller then my other paddles and does not feel like it bites as well as my other paddles. This is especially notable as the blade wears.
If your looking for a spoon blade, I have had good experiences with my Mitchell and Aquabound paddles. My Mitchell has a wood shaft and carbon blade and like it for deeper water runs. It is an expensive paddle. However, the blade is wrapped with epoxy rope on the side, has a metal tip on the bottom, wood T grip, nicely balanced and is reasonably light. The wood shaft has some flex, but the blade feels nice and stiff. It also has an oval shape in the shaft for the bottom hand. I broke the back face of the blade on the Royal Gorge a few years ago and Mitchell fixed it for a very fair price.
I also use an Aquabound Carbon Edge. I really like this paddle, it is cost effective, light and so far very durable. I use it if I am paddling shallower, rocky, creekier type runs.
I have a buddy who uses a Galasport all Carbon Fiber. It is super light and has held up for him so far as it has taken a beating. However, I think his paddle is more of a racing paddle, not sure if it a good choice, if your a rock basher. I am sure Galasport has other options.
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AJ
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Looking for a decent OC-1 paddle. any suggestions? Has anyone used the Werner Bandit Carbon Canoe Paddle or the fiberglass bandit? thanks.
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