HI i havea 1860 johnboat.. i have some 8 foot oars they seem a little short.. what length oars would be correct for a boat with a 80inch beam and side height from 15-22 inches out of the water depending on the load weight and height..thanks, dave..
I'm sure no oar expert but I would think that at 8 ft you are close to the max needed.With a 22in max height and an 80 inch beam Placement of the oar lock is critical.You may want to experiment some how with the placement.I've seen St Lawrence skiffs with oars about 8 ft and they are only about 36 inches wide with about 10" of freeboard.Awkward to row with about 6 inches of handle overlap.And don't put your thumbs on the ends or they may end up flat.But once learned they row wonderfully.
The longer the blade end the less angle needed to reach the water.But if the handle ends up too short it will be odd and you may lack power.I would start with the handles at about 39 inches so you won't mash your thumbs if they come together.Placement of the oar socket is important as well.
