Wilderness SystemsApex Carbon Angler Kayak Fishing Paddle | Carbon Fiber Blade | Adjustable Carbon Fiber Shaft (240-260cm), Black, 8070208

This is quite the high end paddle, and let's be honest, the price reflects that. They say when first getting into kayaking, spend a little less money on the kayak, and a little more on the paddle. After owning a few different kayaks the past couple of years and feeling like a nice paddle would be an investment, I decided to go with Apex Carbon Angler from Wilderness Systems. By an investment, I mean the ability to paddle longer and stronger, and not feel it as much the next day. This paddle does exactly that for me.This paddle was probably twice my budget. It cost more than one of my kayaks. I was sort of naive about my paddles before owning this one. My military background taught me ounces equal pounds, and pounds equal pain, but I was like how much difference can it make when it comes to a kayak paddle... Well, my old paddle was aluminum and fiberglass and weighed 41oz. With the Apex Angler being all carbon fiber at 29oz, the weight difference is more than significant. As soon as you get it in your hands, you feel how light weight and sturdy it is. For having made in China written on it, it is a quality, well made paddle.It is very easy to extend when paddling and break down for travel and storage. Adjusting is very easy by flipping a lever, getting the paddle to the length and feathering you want, and then closing the lever. Lock up is very strong. Opening and closing the lever is smooth and has just the right amount of tension. The fit of the shaft has a tight tolerance and glides effortlessly for length and feathering adjustments.The question you need to be asking yourself is: does this savings in weight and a few nice features make it worth the price? In my case, yes, it did. I'm a disabled veteran and I do have lower back issues. Kayaking for extended periods of time can irritate my back and limit how far out I can paddle. This kayak paddle has helped me be able to stay out on the water longer, paddle further, and not feel it in my back and shoulders as much the next day. I probably could have saved a decent chunk of change by getting a paddle with a carbon shaft and fiberglass or nylon blades, but paying the premium to shed a few more ounces with the carbon fiber blades has been justifiable to me.If you kayak often enough, are older, have a disability, or just want the latest and greatest, this is an awesome paddle. Do your research by knowing what size paddle is best for you. There are charts out there that go off boat length, boat width, and your height.I ended up purchasing the Apex Carbon for my slimmer kayak where 230cm is the ideal length paddle for the that kayak and I went with the Apex Carbon Angler for my fatter kayak because I like a 250cm length paddle for it. I could absolutely get away with owning either one and be just fine in either kayak.I do not like that it is made in China. I do not like the top shelf price. But at the end of the day, it does get 5 stars because it is a very strong, well made, ultra lightweight, high end paddle that enhances my kayaking ability and experiences. By doing my part of cleaning it after use and proper storage, this paddle should last a long time. It gets the nod from me.