Flat Bladed Pin Oars
An oar that has stood the test of time
The pin
oar is widely seen on the Cumbrian Lakes, as well as in some areas of
Scotland. A very traditional, yet simple, way of attaching the oar to the
boat, replacing the conventional rowlock with a vertical thole pin,
usually mounted on the gunwale or a small outrigger. This pin either
passes up through the loom of the oar or through a hole in a additional
bit of timber secured to the side of the loom.
To accommodate the hole for the pin, the loom of the oar is left square from the end of the handle to 4 inches past the pin. This allows easy positioning for the pin slot as well as acting as a counter balance. A very light downward pressure the is the key to successful rowing with this arrangement. The hole in the loom, which is triangular in section to allow for the full movement through the stroke, is lined with copper for protection and has a chafe plate on the underside, where it is in contact with the gunwale.
This arrangement was popular amongst fisherman, allowing them to attend to their rods or lines without needing to ship the oars to
prevent them floating away. Today, many hire boat fleets still use them,
along with recreational users of the traditional lake boats.
With many
different designs, unique to particular areas of the country and boat
builders alike, we would be pleased to reproduce an existing design or
provide a suitable alternative from our range of patterns built up over
the years.
Generally, lengths are normally between 9’2” and 9’6”,
but the position of the pin varies from boat to boat, as determined by
the beam. Manufactured traditionally in fine grain Columbian Pine for
durability, the option of Spruce can also be accommodated for lightness
and feel.
These oars are bespoke to your requirements
and normally have a lead time of 3 to 4 weeks. On placing an order and
confirming the specification we will provide a delivery date.