I'm thinking about trading in my old Sawyer oars for some of those composite oars that everyone is talking about. I understand they come in two different blade styles: One called the cataract which is cast around a core of lightweight composite tubing and is buoyant; and a second blade called the magnum cataract which has a teardrop shape, and a wider tip with more surface area and a thinner cross-section. It seems like most driftboat outfitters are carrying only the magnum blade, so it must be the most popular. So here's the question for those of you who use Cataract oars with your drift boat. Which is better? I've heard from a friend that the magnum blades really suck in shallow water because the blades are too wide and you end up beating them on the rocks. I run alot of low water in the summer time so I'm inclined to not go with the magnum blade. However, I'm also interested in getting the best all around blade for all conditions. Opinions?

Fishlips

It really comes down to personal preferrence. My understanding was old/new style, not current model diffs. I've rowed with both, and I prefer the thinner blades over the thicker. A guide friend however prefers the thicker, his feeling is they don't jam into the rocks and get stuck as often. Either is a great deal better than my old Sawyer counter-balanced oars. Hope this helps. Additionally, some have resin handles, some have wood. I've seen the wood handles break off flush and they're a pain to remove and replace.

Thanks, Huntar. Just to make sure I understand - you prefer the new style with the thinner cross section and the wider blade. Right?

In case anyone wants to see a picture of the old blade vs the new magnum blade -you can go to the following webpage www.advancedcomposites.com

Most everyone I know that has bought Cataracts has bought both blades, enabling them to switch blades with the water conditions.