Paddle matl question

[chris pearson]

Anyone ever use cypres for a paddle? Its light and used in boats, plus I can get it! Sorry if my spelling is incorrect.
-Chris

 

[Dave Wermuth]

Hi Chris

I've used cypress for outwhales and like it alot. I would not hesitate making a paddle out of it. It seems to work like butter, has nice grain and is light and rot resistant.
regards, Dave.

 

[Scot T]

Here on the west coast the Natives have used our cypress (commonly called Yellow Cedar - not a cedar at all though) a lot for paddles. It is easy to work, very stable, light, takes finishes very well and like all members of the cedar/cypress families is nicely rot resistant. It is a bit soft so won't take the beating that Ash or other hardwood made paddles might but paddles are for propelling your canoe not bashing rocks.

A buddy of mine makes nice paddles from it and swears by it. I wouldn't hesitate to use it but to be truthful I haven't made any with it as any good stuff I get goes into Flamenco guitars.