Collars

This arrangement of rowing can be found on many boats throughout the Cumbrian Lakes and in parts of Scotland . A very traditional yet simple way of attaching the oar to the boat, replacing the conventional rowlock with a vertical pin. Known as the thole pin and usually mounted on a rowing frame or gunwale, it serves as a fulcrum or pivot point for the oar to rotate around.

To accommodate the hole for the pin, the loom of the oar is left square from the end of the handle to 4 inches past the pin. This allows easy positioning for the pin slot as well as acting as a counter balance, as very light downward pressure by the hands is the key to successful rowing with this type of arrangement. The hole, normally triangular in section to allow the full movement throughout the stroke, is lined with copper for protection. Occasionally a small clip is fixed to the top of the pin as it protrudes through the oar to prevent it jumping off.

With many different designs unique to particular areas of the country and boat builders alike, we would be pleased to reproduce an existing pattern or provide a suitable alternative. Generally lengths are similar to our standard oars, but the position of the square section carrying the pin varies, from boat to boat, mainly determined by the beam. Manufactured in either Spruce for lightness or Pine for durability all designs are finished in a hardwearing polyurethane gloss varnish. Please contact us with your requirements and we will be pleased to help.