I had my first C-1 paddling experience on the LY last night. I typically paddle an OC-1, Dagger Ocoee.
I got to paddle a Hahn loaned to me by Charlie Walbridge and what a schweeet ride . This is the most stable boat I have ever paddled and very fast for a 50+ pound boat. The ability to easily do cross strokes across the deck is a big difference from an OC-1. This boat surfed well for its length and eased across eddy lines..I ran a few rapids with my paddle out of the water to see how stable it was and it was insane how smooth this boat was...I think I can see why Charlie has had this as his boat of choice for the past 30+ years.
My only frustrating point was my Roll. I practiced last week—with tutelage from Charlie—in a pond and got my roll down, I came back this week and for the life of me could not roll!!! I need more pointers to remember how to do it...
This boat is also a bear to carry out of the loop, but a good workout!
Just thought I would share a great evening of paddling..
Charlie is an old friend. Ask him if he remembers a guy named Jim Gross who gave him a boat called the Selway. It was a big protype C-1 I built for self supported triping in big class IV out west. It had prominant edges and upon Charlie testing it on the Loop he strained his back as the boat turned faster than he did. I used to paddle big water on the New and Gauley and even ran it down the UY maybe 20 times.
Anyway, the Hahn Charlie paddles is a modified Hahn and then he modifies it further. He made isserts for the mold to shorten the boat. It serves his huge frame well.
Charlie is an old friend. Ask him if he remembers a guy named Jim Gross who gave him a boat called the Selway. It was a big protype C-1 I built for self supported triping in big class IV out west. It had prominant edges and upon Charlie testing it on the Loop he strained his back as the boat turned faster than he did. I used to paddle big water on the New and Gauley and even ran it down the UY maybe 20 times.
Anyway, the Hahn Charlie paddles is a modified Hahn and then he modifies it further. He made inserts for the mold to shorten the boat. It serves his huge frame well.
Jim
Small world Jim. Next time I see Charlie I will tell him you said hi..
I should be meeting up with him sometime, I have to give his boat back, but might have to find one for myself!
Nice quote Devin, I was hoping somebody would catch that !
We had a great party last night, wish you could have made it, I even sang with the band, quite embarrassing.
. This is the most stable boat I have ever paddled and very fast for a 50+ pound boat. The ability to easily do cross strokes across the deck is a big difference from an OC-1. This boat surfed well for its length and eased across eddy lines..I ran a few rapids with my paddle out of the water to see how stable it was and it was insane how smooth this boat was...I think I can see why Charlie has had this as his boat of choice for the past 30+ years.
!