You mentioned something about the paddle being heavy????? I saw a technique and have actually tried it (although i'm not finished with the paddle yet) It involves boring holes in the center laminations... drilled in such a way that you don't see them of course :-) If I can find the link I'll post it. The one I have made up is as stiff as you could possibly want in a paddle and it's strong too. I'll try to snap a photo or two. Doug