Repairing a paddle shaft is very similar to creating a set of split paddles. I have a pair of Werner Players that were pretty much brand new but had snapped near the right hand blade. The technique I use here could be used to repair the shaft on pretty much any paddle and could even be used to shorten or adjust the feather on a sound paddle.
The first task was to clean up the two exposed ends of the shaft. I have a bike steering tube cutting guide that is ideal for this job as the cut is clean and perpendicular to the shaft. Doing this probably lost around 3cm from the overall length of the paddle.
I used a hacksaw with a standard blade to cut the shaft.
Once cleaned the spigot was sanded down to size and I added several 5mm holes to aid with the bonding of the glue. I used rapid fix epoxy glue and glued all parts in place.
I then used another set of paddles to get the feather set just right. The paddles were then taped up and put to one side to cure. Around 20 minutes later I cleaned up the joint ready for a fresh layer of epoxy to ensure the seal was nice and water tight.
Around £10 = a saved set of paddles.
It’s been a few hours since I left the paddle/glue to setup. Super strong repair. Feels pretty good and the paddle length is still very usable.
What did you use as the spigot?
A carbon shaft of the correct diameter. They are sold by some kayak shops as spigots for paddles.
Could you mention which shops have them available?
WWTCC is one that I have found has a good supply.
is the spigot made of wood ?
Spigot is very similar to the skypole material used on Werner shafts.