Greenheart
Well-Known Member
Well, on one hand I'm certain it puts unwelcome stress on the rudder-hangings, and on the parts of the blade and stock which allow the rudder to pivot and effectively elongate...
...but the surprising forward motion of the boat which rewards a steady back & forth of the tiller when the rudder is hanging at about 45 degrees, is extremely tempting.
Good grief, you've got me thinking about leaving my oars at the club next time I sail!
Actually when I was planning rowing the Osprey, I initially bought plastic rowlock-sockets which were designed to sit on the edge of the gunwale. They didn't suit the beveled edge, so they've since lain idle somewhere in my box of bits. But I might bolt one securely to a point on the transom, so I can use an oar to scull, rather than risk damaging the rudder.
Still, my rear deck occupies 3ft of length, and I'll be sitting perhaps 12" ahead of that...so there may not be much oar in the water when I'm done. Longer oars are always best.
