Just picked up a new Old town Bent Shaft Paddle... only problem is that one of the corners on the top handle was knocked off... but for $14.00 and the piece that was knocked off with it I thought I would give it a try to repair... anyone ever tried this before? I put the piece back on with Gorilla glue... Piece fit like a glove no rough edges or anything... I am thinking about drilling a small hole and putting in a small wood screw to help make sure the piece stays in place! Or else I could just use it and if it comes loose again tape it back on... Any of you handy men have any ideas let me know...

Bruce

I would hold off on the screw for the paddle's sake...from my experience, gorilla glue does the trick on just about anything.

Arkansas Man, please hold off on the screw! I use Gorilla Glue extensively when making outdoor furniture and bird feeders. It is incredibly strong and very water proof. I would suggest sanding the glue line smooth with 300 grit wet / dry paper and a little water. Follow this up with a couple of coats of marine varnish and repeat the sanding. The paddle should be like new. If you do want to strengthen this spot more I would suggest drilling a small hole and using the gorilla glue and a hardwood dowel. Flush up the dowel and sand and varnish as mentioned above. Hope the paddle serves you well for many years to come.

Any suggestions on the marine varnish, what brand to use? I have a few old paddle that need some attention. Any information is welcomed.

I use Valspar Marine Spar Varnish. I have had good success using it on wood gunwales, paddles etc. Goes on well, cures and dries nicely and holds up to the water, rain moisture of the BW well.

I find it at large hardware store, boat shops etc. If you have a Mills Fleet Farm near you they carry it.

Thanks for the replies and information... I used the Gorilla Glue and it worked very well, seems to be a solid bonding. I have applied 3 coats of Helmsman Spar Urethane and it looks great... You can hardly see the crack. I will apply a couple of more coats to help insure the finish. Only thing now I have found is that the Paddle is rather short for me... I guess I will let my fiance use it, it will look good up in the bow with her...

Bruce