Description & Features
The Sawyer DuraMax Polecat Oar combines a lightweight fiberglass shaft with a durable composite blade for dependable whitewater rowing at an accessible price. Built for raft guides and recreational rowers, it delivers smooth strokes and solid power for everyday river use.
The DuraMax blade uses fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene to withstand impacts during river travel. Rope wrap and a rubber stop help keep the oar quiet and positioned in the oarlock, while the laminated fir barrel grip with a vinyl rubber cover provides a comfortable handhold. The Tite-Set Blade Lock holds the blade securely for a solid, rattle-free connection.
Key Features
- Lightweight fiberglass shaft: Polecat construction provides dependable performance for whitewater rowing.
- Impact-resistant blade: Fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene adds durability for contact with river obstacles.
- Rope wrap and rubber stop: Help quiet contact with the oarlock and maintain the oar's position while rowing.
- Comfortable barrel grip: Laminated fir with a vinyl rubber cover provides a secure handhold.
- Secure blade connection: Tite-Set Blade Lock keeps the blade firmly attached without rattling.
Specifications
- Overall Lengths: 7'6" to 10', overall length including blade
- Shaft: Fiberglass Polecat
- Shaft Inside Diameter: 1 5/8"
- Shaft Reinforcement: Fiberglass cuff
- Shaft Protection: Rope wrap and rubber stop
- Grip: Laminated fir barrel grip with vinyl rubber cover
- Grip Diameter: Standard 1 5/8"
- Blade: DuraMax composite
- Blade Material: Fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene
- Blade Dimensions: 7" W × 30" L
- Blade Connection: Tite-Set Blade Lock
Best Use
Whitewater rafting, guided river trips, and recreational rowing where durability, comfortable handling, and value are priorities. Choose the overall length to suit your boat and rowing setup.
Materials & Construction
DuraMax Composite Blade
The DuraMax blade combines polypropylene with fiberglass reinforcement for impact resistance. Its durable construction suits the repeated use and occasional contact with obstacles that come with river rowing.
Longitudinal Fiberglass Shaft Construction
This construction uses fiberglass fibers aligned lengthwise along the shaft to maximize strength, flex consistency, and durability. By running fibers longitudinally, the shaft maintains a smooth, predictable bend under load while resisting fatigue and failure over time. The result is a balanced flex profile that feels responsive and forgiving on each stroke, ideal for long days and variable river conditions.
Rope Wrap & Rubber Stop
A rope wrap with a rubber stop protects the shaft at the oarlock contact point while improving balance and control. The stop prevents the oar from slipping through the oarlock when released, keeping your oar secure and within reach. This setup reduces wear and maintains consistent performance over time.
Laminated Fir Barrel Grip
The laminated fir barrel grip gives you a natural, responsive feel with the composite shaft. A vinyl rubber cover adds comfort and a secure hold for long days on the water. Choose standard or small grip diameters to match your hand size and rowing style.
Tite-Set Blade Lock System
The Tite-Set Blade Lock creates a secure, fail-safe connection between shaft and blade. It eliminates rattle, prevents loosening, and allows easy blade changes when needed.
