Setting Oar Length

Setting Your Adjustable Handles

For ease of packaging, adjustable handles are shipped in the shortest position of their range. This length is indicated on the invoice packed with the oars. To adjust the handle to achieve your desired oar length, follow these steps:

Instructions

  1. Using a Phillips head or flat blade screwdriver, loosen the clamping screw at the shaft end of the grip. Do not remove it; just loosen it by several turns.
  2. Using a 6mm socket wrench/nut driver or an adjustable speed drill with a 6mm hex bit, turn the adjusting screw at the very end of the grip until you reach your desired length. Apply a little forward pressure on the screw as you turn it. Turn clockwise to shorten the oar; counterclockwise to lengthen it. It takes approximately four turns to move one centimeter. Note: A 1/4 inch socket wrench or nut driver can also be used.
  3. Tighten the clamping screw until snug to lock the handle into position.
    Do not overtighten.

Setting Proper Oar Length

There is great versatility with adjustable length oars. The optimal oar length will depend on the type of blade you are using. Shown below are length ranges we recommend for oars with different blade types. Many factors influence oar length, including rig, rowing style, size and speed of crew. For example, faster crews should consider the longer range; slower crews should consider the shorter range. If you are not sure what length to set, we recommend starting in the middle of the 5cm range.

Recommended Oar Length

  Fat/Fat2 Smoothie Big Blade
Collegiate Women 362–367 cm  367–372 cm  367–372 cm
Collegiate Men 365–370 cm  370–375 cm  370–375 cm
Elite Women 365–370 cm  370–375 cm  370–375 cm
Elite Men 368–373 cm  373–378 cm  373–378 cm
Master Sculler 278–283 cm  284–289 cm  284–289 cm
Senior Sculler, double 280–285 cm  287–292 cm  287–292 cm