Simple Oars

These plans are provided free for all to use and distribute and are not for sale. They were created as my thanks to Jacques Mertens of Bateau.com and all builders who take the time to post and help others in the Bateau forums.

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Some Assembly Images

Oar Hardware Considerations


There are 4 types of oar locks - ribbed, round, north river and clamped. Ribbed and round will require oarlock safety chains so you don't drop them into the water. They will also need oar buttons to keep them in position and leathers to protect them from wear.

The North River type keep the oarlock in position and the oar perpendicular to the water. The advantage of the clamp-on oarlock is that they are moveable until you can find a position that is comfortable for you. They also keep the oarlock in position and the oar perpendicular to the water.

There are 3 basic types of oarlock sockets - edgemount, sidemount and topmount. For most of the Bateau boats, you'll probably use the edgemount or sidemount. The edgemount may provide more horizontal sheer strength as it is screwed from the top and sides.

All of these parts also usually come in stainless, bronze, brass, or zinc-coated.

Some Oar Links

Quick and Dirty Oars.

Making Oars

Small servicable oars...

Making Your Own Oars...

A Jim Michalak article on oars and rowing.

For much more info, go to the bateau.com forums and do a search on "oars" in "all forums", "all dates".