Just a plug to consider the least expensive Begali paddle (Simplex) http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/2665. After a friend purchased one, his Schurr went on Ebay and several of us went into the Begali fold. It's a very clean/beautiful, finely adjustable, and rigid design. Pietro is a pleasure to deal with too. GL es Happy New Year! 73, Woody N5ZU . .