In this section we'll go through how to cut your fixed paddle to fit you perfectly.
There are many advantages to a fixed paddle, especially when you've paddled a bit and know what length paddle you want. A fixed paddle gives you a lighter paddle and you can construct a paddle that exactly matches your needs and shape. This looks at whether your hand size, blade size and the flex of the shaft fit together.
It can be a bit anxiety provoking to imagine starting to cut your brand new paddle for thousands of dollars. Nevertheless, that's what it takes, and it's not that hard.
Remember the old carpenter's advice: Measure twice and cut once, never the other way around!
You'll need:
- Your paddle
- Saw template
- Duct tape
- Glue
- Hot glue gun
- Measuring tape
Point by point - this is how you do it
1. Start by finding your desired height. (Remember when these are shown and measured it includes handles)
2. Take measurements of the desired handle.
3. Subtract the length of the handle from the total desired length (if necessary, line up the paddle + handle and measure).
4. Note/make a small mark where the paddle shaft should be cut. Often there are inch measurement indications on the shaft that can be used for reference.
5. Now it's time to cut.
6. Always use a 90-degree saw template (miter box) to ensure you make a clean and perfectly straight cut.
7. Use a hacksaw with a fine edge.
8. Measure a second time, stand with the paddle (without a handle, but where it will be) and feel if the length is the desired length.
9. Put a piece of tape on the shaft in the area you want to cut. This gives a neater result and less frayed edge.
10. Cut the shaft slowly, making sure to keep the blade straight on the saw and that it follows the template so that the cut is perfectly straight. Avoid going too fast, especially at the beginning and end, cut slowly and smoothly. 
11. Remove the handle from the saw frame and lightly sand the edge inside and out for the last burrs/frayed edge.
12. Insert the handle into the shaft, initially without glue. If there is a plastic band around the handle, leave this on, it will be used later.
13. Make sure the handle sits nicely and with not too much air around the shaft. And remember to double check that the handle is mounted correctly in relation to how you hold the paddle. Find a good flat surface for the paddle to rest on.
14. Apply a light coat of 2-component glue (epoxy glue is available in most DIY stores)
15. Apply an even layer of glue to the part of the handle that goes down into the shaft.
16. Put the handle down and adjust it so it fits snugly. Lightly wipe off the excess glue.
17. Place the paddle on a flat place where it can dry (on the blade and handle so it's perfectly straight). *Check again that you have turned the handle correctly.
18. Wait a few hours (or whatever the glue prescribes)
19. Place the plastic ring (approx. 2 cm wide) over the glue and heat it up with a heat gun/hairdryer. The material shrinks and wraps nicely around the glue and seals it.
Well done!
You're now ready to get out there and give it a go with your new paddle.
If you're unsure about anything, you're always welcome to contact us.
If you haven't found the perfect paddle for you yet - check out our great selection HERE
