Sweep Handles & Grips
We offer both adjustable length and fixed length oars and sculls. Adjustable length oars feature a composite handle that allows 5 cm of adjustment. Fixed length oars are available with either a wooden handle or a bonded composite handle.
Length Adjustment System
This system utilizes a bonded composite handle with a structural outside grip that is capable of a 5 centimeter range of adjustment.
Features:
- Simple three-step process adjusts oar length.
- Redundant design for safety: The grip is keyed to the handle to prevent rotation.
- Continuous choice of settings over the entire five centimeter range. Each turn of the adjusting screw results in a length change of approximately .25 centimeters.
- Oars are marked at the handle to indicate overall length of the oar in centimeters.
- Worn grips or damaged parts are easily replaced.
- Low-stress, wiggle-free connection withstands heavy use and extends the life of the handle.
Handle Weight & Diameter
The bonded composite handles are the lightest handle we offer. The adjustable composite handles weigh about the same as the lightest wood handles. The wood handle weights are variable due to the nature of the wood and are also subject to water absorption. We offer three choices of handle diameter for wooden handles. There is just one handle diameter available for adjustable composite handles.
Sweep Grips (Composite Handles Only)
Sweep rowing requires a grip with a combination of properties that allow for some relative movement between the hand and the grip while offering sufficient "grippiness" under both dry and wet conditions.
Recognizing the subtle differences in the dynamics of the inside and outside hands, the sweep grips are molded using different formulations for each hand. Both are Spring Green in color and can be left smooth or custom textured with a file or sandpaper, much like a wood handle. The inside hand is slightly softer than the outside hand and has more grip. This allows for excellent function yet is easier on your hands. These grips are extremely durable but you can easily replace them in the field if required.
We also have a new Blue Cellular grip material, which has a soft, suede-like texture. This grip exhibits very good qualities in both dry and wet conditions. However, it does collect dirt and sweat more quickly than the smooth grip, and must be cleaned with more frequency to maintain performance.
Sweep Handle Diameter Options
| Handle Construction | Size | Handle Diameter Outside Hand |
Handle Diameter Inside Hand |
|---|---|---|---|
| composite | medium | 3.7 cm | 4.5 cm |
| wood | small | 3.9 cm | tapered |
| wood | medium | 4.2 cm | tapered |
| wood | large | 4.5 cm | tapered |