To copper or not to copper a sweep

[Roach1948]

My newly acquired sweep is made from pine, but the blade itself is shaped from three glued planks – so I suspect I need to copper the end like others I have seen? Or not? Not sure, I am just a bit wary about nailing things in something that will be submerged. What shall I do?

 

[Poignard]

As the copper band is there to prevent damage I suppose you could achieve the same effect by epoxying a glass cloth bandage on. No nails needed and, if you want a traditional appearance, you could add some copper-coloured powder to the final coat of epoxy.

 

[Scarboroughsloop]

I would suggest if you're going to do it - then do it properly (perhaps traditionally would be a better word!) and use copper.

For the best advice on whether to or not I would suggest speaking to Collars.

 

[ccscott49]

I poxied mine!

 

[Peterduck]

Another very traditional treatment for the end of the blade is a strip of hardwood laid across the end of the blade [thus with its grain transverse to the length of the sweep] and epoxied in place. The purpose is to provide protection for the rather fragile blade tip, as oars and sweeps can often get used for fending off. This hardwood strip can also have a wooden spike in its middle, in line with axis of the sweep, to take some of the damage from this sort of activity. Either way, you're providing a sacrificial element to the business end of the spar.
Peter.

 

[nmiller]

Hi
I prefer both modern alternatives to trad copper. Copper requires nails that let wet into the wood, and is not as robust as either of the alternative suggestions. If you use epoxy to glue the hardwood strip on, you can e-glass a bandage on at the same time. Best of both worlds then.
Nick

 

[Roach1948]

Great - that is what I will do. I the best of both worlds ideas!