Oar Maintenance
What maintenance do they need?
- Keep the oars out of the weather when not in use. UV light is very hard on any finish, particularly varnish.
- Store the oars upright, grips against the floor. This minimizes the effect of gravity bending the shafts.
- Use a leather dressing on the leathers and buttons. It will keep the leather from drying out and also serves to lubricate the oarlock, making feathering easier. We like Huberd's Shoe Grease.
- Touch up dings or deep scratches with a spar varnish. We use Pettit Flagship. Sand the affected area lightly with 240 grit paper, and apply varnish. Repeat to build up varnish thickness and provide greater protection.
- Don t use an oar to fend off an object or push away from shore. If you must, turn the oar around and use the grip end to push against the object. It s much better to carry a driftwood stick to fend off with.
- Carry your oars with the blades in front of you. It's easier to keep them safe from hazards this way.
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