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Dagger Katana 9.7 – Style Points or Hollow Points For This Whitewater Kayak?

More often than not, you can tell a lot about a product by looking at its name alone. While this may not always be the case for some of the kayaks out there, you will find that the Dagger Katana 9.7 kayak is one craft that truly lives up to its name. That’s because it is quick and sleek, slicing through the water like a hot knife slices through butter. It’s quite an impressive watercraft.

As a crossover boat, the Dagger Katana 9.7 can be used in numerous water conditions. Stable and sturdy, it is a choice that many beginners and intermediate paddlers would actually appreciate. Providing a smooth and balanced gait when on the water, it is easy to see how its design and build truly excels.

Many paddlers have noted that it easily inspires confidence, even for those that may not have a well of paddling experience under their belts. This Dagger Katana 9.7 review will reveal these attributes and more below.

Check out the Dagger Katana 9.7 Kayak on Amazon!

Dagger Katana 9.7 Frame

One of the very first things about the Dagger Katana 9.7 kayak to take note of is the fact that it is quite ergonomic in build and style. It is designed to showcase a balanced profile, which ensures that the craft keeps its speed when used on flat water. This also allows it to successfully retain its maneuverability when used on rapids.

Check out our Dagger Axis 12 review and our Dagger Mamba Creeker review!

Primary stability for the Dagger Katana 9.7 is reinforced by its precise hull design. It is constructed with flared and beveled sidewalls, all of which are aimed toward providing it with some necessary secondary stability. Paddlers will also appreciate the rounded shape of the stern deck. This allows for easy water shedding.

This is indeed one very forgiving craft when used in moving water. Precision is very evident in how the whole craft is designed. The makers have clearly envisioned the Dagger Katana 9.7 kayak as one that will do excellent in flat-water, but will also live up to the more challenging rides in rapids.

Nimble, light and stable, paddlers will love how the Katana offers a good amount of space for movement in the cockpit. While it looks a little small and short at first glance, it is quite surprising to find that it has a considerable amount of legroom inside.

Paddlers will also appreciate the ergo seating system implemented in the cockpit area. This is equipped with a leg lifter, padding on the seats and back, as well as pads for the hips.

If there was anything that the makers of the Dagger Katana 9.7 may have had in mind when they were drafting out its design, it was probably comfort. This is certainly not what many kayaks out there can say for themselves, as there are many brands that are way too focused on style instead of comfort.

The craft’s frame is made from polyethylene, lending considerable sturdiness and overall strength to the kayak. The material does not require constant care and maintenance, which further reinforces the idea that this would be the go-to craft for busy paddlers who may not always have time to spare.

Features of the Dagger Katana 9.7

The cross-over boat design allows paddlers who want to experience both flat water and whitewater to have a reliable craft they can use. The Dagger Katana 9.7 is the perfect match for adventurers who want to enjoy water trips that are multi-expedition in nature. Paddlers that don’t want to have to limit their paddling adventures to just whitewater alone will really love the hybrid nature of this kayak.

Check out the Dagger Katana 9.7 Kayak on Amazon!

The ConTour Ergo seats are also worth noting. With paddlers who love longer and multiple trips, the manufacturers have made it a point to implement a seat system that is appropriate for longer trips. The seats are also outfitted with thigh and knee pads to ensure optimum comfort, as well as safety, when sitting in the cockpit for an extended length of time.

The Dagger Katana 9.7’s balanced rocker profile provides great stability, which is really huge when it comes to the design of this craft. It ensures that this is one kayak that will stay steady in most conditions when on the water.

For the inexperienced paddler, this is a huge plus, as this ensures that they will not have a hard time keeping their balance while trying to learn the basics of maneuvering the craft. There is also the TruTrak skeg system, which can be adjusted to keep you in line during windy weather or rough water conditions.

Check out the Dagger Katana 9.7 Kayak on Amazon!

The Dagger Katana 9.7 is also fitted with carrying handles, which are located along the stern and the bow. Comfortable and easy to hold, this ensures that it will be easy enough to transport the craft and carry it around.

The spacious cockpit is great for people who prefer a lot of legroom. Some paddlers have had the misfortune of getting stuck in rather narrow and cramped cockpits, which is obviously very uncomfortable. This cockpit has a 20 inch width and is 35.5 inches long, which is pretty roomy.

Storage

The Dagger Katana 9.7 is designed to offer considerable storage for the paddler. It is equipped with reinforced hatches, along with removable bulkheads. As a result, what the paddler gets is not just excellent legroom in the cockpit, but some spacious storage areas for gear and other items that might be needed for extended trips. There is also bungee cords on the deck for additional storage.

Pros

Versatile hybrid craft for flat water and whitewater use
ConTour Ergo seats are perfect for extended trips
Spacious cockpit for ease of movement while paddling
Balanced profile ensures maneuverability and speed, regardless of water conditions
Plenty of storage space for gear and other supplies
TruTrak adjustable skeg for additional control in extreme conditions

Cons

The Dagger Katana 9.7’s cockpit may be too small for those with longer legs
Entire length may be too short for those who need more storage and room
Only has a 210 pound weight capacity, not yet mentioned in this Dagger Katana 9.7 review

Dagger Katana 9.7 Review Conclusion

Overall, buyers will find that the Dagger Katana 9.7 kayak is a very good choice for a hybrid kayak. For those of you who want to have a craft that you can use for both flat and white waters, this is definitely the kayak for you.

Check out the Dagger Katana 9.7 Kayak on Amazon!

While there are many instances of products ending up being less impressive than their monikers that inspired them, the Dagger Katana 9.7 does not. If anything, it is one kayak that truly lives up to the reputation of the sword that it is named after.

Versatile, balanced, fast, maneuverable, and definitely comfortable, it is not a surprise how there are so many paddlers out there that have opted for the Dagger Katana 9.7 as their kayak of choice.

Top 5 Kayak Paddles – Best Bang For Your Buck Edition!

As almost everyone knows, some kayaks come with paddles and some do not, so you have to purchase them separately. That’s when you have to do your research into a paddle that will be suitable for the type of kayaking you will be doing.

There are many paddles to look at, with different price variations, depending on ease of use, material, weight, and more, but which one is the best kayak paddle? We will keep expanding on this guide, but for now, take a look at these best kayak paddle options to see if they would be a nice fit for your particular activity.

Best Kayak Paddles On The Market:

1. Carlisle Magic Plus – Polypro Blades/Fiberglass Shaft

If you are looking for a paddle that is light and durable at the same time, you cannot go wrong here. Made from glass-filled polypropylene, you can expect a high impact paddle that will have an impressively long lifespan. The Carlisle Magic Plus has a weight of 35.6 oz, is 220 centimeters (a little more than 7 feet) long, and comes in 3 colors, Cloud, Sunrise, and Dark Cherry.

It is also available in lengths of 230 centimeters and 240 centimeters. The paddle is designed to perform powerful and smooth strokes, all thanks to its symmetrical shape and the slightly spooned shape of its blade.

The shaft is made from flexible fiberglass, which provides the holder with a sturdy paddle stroke, along with a slight flex that is necessary to significantly reduce stress along the joints. The blades are filled with fiberglass too, which means that it is not only durable, but it is significantly lightweight too. If you are looking for a paddle that is designed to take a beating, this one certainly takes the cake.

Some people might find it a little bit of an inconvenience that there are only very small movements that are allowed between the two pieces, due to its stiffness. However, adjusting the configurations of the paddle is quite easy to do. It is convenient that it can be broken down during transport too.

At the price that it is offered, it is certainly one reliable paddle. No wonder this one made it as our #1 best kayak paddle selection.

Check out the Carlisle Magic Plus on Amazon!

2. SeaSense X-1 Kayak Paddle

Probably one of the best-priced paddles on the market today, the SeaSense X-1’s lightweight blades will be a huge plus for users that don’t want to end up straining their arms too much when using this paddle. The paddle is made up of two pieces of blades that are made from black molded plastics. The shaft is a two-piece construction fashioned from aluminum.

For buyers that are looking for both comfort and value, this is one good purchase that will certainly deliver. While there are users that may find the overall length of the paddle, at 84 inches, to be a tad bit short, this makes for a really excellent spare.

The SeaSense X-1 is designed to float in the water, and it is equipped with paddles that have adaptable angles. The blades can be turned to three different positions, depending on your preference. While the paddle does feel lightweight, it does not feel flimsy at all, which ensures that it can carry out some really vigorous strokes when in use. The cushioned grips attached on the shaft makes for some comfortable paddling.

Check out the SeaSense X-1 kayak paddle on Amazon!

3. Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Posi-Lok

For people who are looking for a well-constructed paddle that is lightweight and sturdy, this is one excellent buy. Considering the price, the high standards in which this product is created is certainly notable. The light weight of the blade means that it is able to easily slice through the water in a smooth fashion.

The strong build of this Aqua-Bound paddle allows it to be used to improve one’s overall performance. The quality carbon used to construct the shaft lends a larger circumference to the handle, but it is also responsible for giving it a sturdier feel. The paddle is designed to be detached and adjusted, and there is a two-button release on the shaft to perform this feature.

The excellent material with which the product is made ensures that it is able to resist corrosion. There is a slight flex on the shaft, along with a low weight on the swing, as a result of the carbon construction of the shaft. The strength and stiffness of this best kayak paddle option are further enhanced by its carbon fiber blades. Overall, this is one sturdy paddle.

Check out the Aqua Bound Stingray Kayak Paddles on Amazon!

4. Werner Camano 2 Pc Straight

This Werner Camano paddle boasts of the ideal balance between durability and weight, thanks to its careful handcrafting using pressure molding. It is sturdy and lightweight, thanks to its carbon and top-quality fiberglass blend design. For the kayak users that really value a well-balanced paddle, this one will certainly live up to expectations.

The paddle’s 2-piece design means that it can easily be broken down. This ensures easier transport, as well as storage when not in use. The paddle also features an adjustable Ferrule System, which ensures that the feather can be easily adjusted to different angles.

When on the water, it can be noticed how the kayak paddle creates minimal flutter, which makes it possible to create forward strokes that are exceptionally flawless and smooth. Drag is also reduced thanks to the asymmetrical shape of the blades. This selection for our best kayak paddle list is able to easily and smoothly pull through the water. It does not require a tight grip, so it greatly reduces stress on the wrist and arms.

These blades are beautifully crafted. Since they are designed to glow while in the water, it helps lend more visibility as you paddle. These mid-sized blades are also designed to keep the user’s lap dry, thanks to its drip rings. It’s meant to be used with a touring kayak.

Check out the Werner Camano 2 on Amazon!

5. Bending Branches Angler Classic Kayak Paddle

If you are looking for a kayak paddle with features that are angler-friendly, then this classic offering from Bending Branches would be ideal for you. This is certainly the paddle of choice for those that love fishing excursions. It is designed with a built-in retriever for hooks, which is quite useful if you need to rescue lures, free snags on the lines, as well as on those occasions where you need to land a rather massive fish.

Its Angler Classic’s fiberglass shaft lends a lot to its overall durability. It is also fashioned with a measurement system, which makes it easier for the avid fishing enthusiast to get a good recording of the measurements of his catch, both in centimeters and inches.

The length of the paddle allows the user to have it raised high up in the air, which lends to a more minimized splashing the moment that it touches back down in the water. This helps if you are using it to fish, so as not to scare a potential catch away. It is designed to have a lower angle for paddling, which results in less water that drips toward the boat.

The paddle is impressively sturdy, and for people that are looking for quality at a good price, this one is a clear winner. The fact that it offers some really interesting features, on top of being your usual kayak paddle, makes this a really fun piece to have around.

Check out the Bending Branches kayak paddles on Amazon!

This best kayak paddle option also comes with a snap button ferrule, which ensures easier storage and transport. If you love some extra features on your paddle, this would be quite an interesting purchase.

Dagger Axis 12 – Sharp Handling Kayaking Experience?

Acquiring a reliable kayak is every water lover’s dream. As such, experienced kayakers will always run for functionality rather than brand. And that is where the Dagger Axis 12.0 kayak comes in. Its manufacturer, Confluence Outdoors, has specialized in the production of polyethylene kayak models.

Like most other handy kayaks, the Axis has very little to offer in the way of aesthetics. Yet beyond aesthetics, it carries a punch and is able to handle various weight types quite well. This is what makes it a kayak worth taking a look at, which we will do in this Dagger Axis 12 review.

For other options, check out our Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS review here.

How Strong is the Frame of the Dagger Axis 12?

The Dagger Axis 12 is made of rotomolded polyethylene, which makes it very light to carry and easy to maneuver in calm waters. In rough waters, it requires a steady pair of hands. The sit-in kayak measures 12 feet in length and has a width of 27.5 inches, which compliments its length to provide the vessel with more stability. The round hard-shelled hull is sturdily built and interspersed with the cockpit’s coaming, hatches and handle joints.

The kayak’s formulation is meant to provide it with water cutting abilities. It has a prominent front overhang, and the bow area is more raised than the stern area. On flat ground, the Axis 12 might seem more horizontally shaped, but once in the water, the sheer lines become more raised on the bow.

Fully rigged, the kayak weighs only 55 pounds, and this solo vessel can carry up to 350 pounds, which is way above the weight of the average kayaker, plus some essential gear.

The Dagger Axis 12 has a considerably wider cockpit than other kayaks, which allows for ease of entry and relaxed maneuverability. The cockpit area alone makes it a kayak worth considering for new, as well as experienced paddlers.

The inner cockpit area is also quite roomy, with a length of 38 inches, catering for most kayakers with their legs fully outstretched. If you are one who doesn’t experience the joy of getting sprayed with water, the coaming on the Dagger Axis 12 is capable of accommodating spray skirts quite well.

Dagger Axis 12 Kayak Features

In the way of comfort, you will get a ConTour CFS-R Seating System, which will supplement your paddling needs quite well. The system is composed of a foam padded base seat and backrest. The adjustable backrest allows for optimal spinal support and comfortable seating positions.

Additionally, the seat comes with a leg lifter to ensure maximum support to the legs, whether slightly arched or fully stretched. Needless to say, the seating is specially formulated for both recreational and sporting activities.

While we’re still taking about comfort, the Dagger Axis 12 comes equipped with ConTour knee pads in place to protect your knees from injury during rough water maneuvers. The knee pads can be readjusted to work as thigh pads too. Should you need more, you can also get an additional pair of thigh braces to create more stability during paddling.

Carrying your kayak to and from the water is easy. There are two soft touch handles that are easy to grasp, and they are located on both ends of the boat. With its low weight and the easy to grip handles, you will not feel the Dagger Axis 12 drag as you carry it.

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The TruTrak Adjustable Skeg System is on hand to aid in the way of stability and tracking. The retractable skeg can be pulled up whenever one does not wish to use it. To control it, you would use the adjustable slide lock XL foot braces that are provided on the kayak.

Storage Space!

If you fear water leaks, you needn’t worry about any water getting into the Dagger Axis kayak cockpit. Separating the hull and the cockpit from the stern hatch is a stern bulkhead. The stern bulkhead ensures that water does not seep into the cockpit area via the hatch or the molded-in storage area.

The Dagger Axis 12.0 kayak has only one hatch, and that is the stern hatch. It is conveniently located close to the paddler’s seat. This enhances easy retrieval and storage of items placed inside the hatch. Close to the stern deck is a molded-in storage area. The area can hold small items that you might need right away, and it is secured by bungee cords.

The bow section also has another molded-in storage portion. The mesh deck covered storage point is a vantage storage area for things that one might not require immediately. Here you can store supplies and emergency equipment, and it too is secured by bungee stretch cords.

An extra paddle would help, should you lose your primary paddle in rough waters. For that reason, the Dagger Axis 12 has a paddle park where you can place an extra set of paddles. You should always be prepared for the fact that you might lose your grip on the paddle you are using, especially in rapids.

Pros

Easy to use for all users, from inexperienced to experienced kayakers
A spacious cockpit
Comes with a skeg that enhances tracking abilities
Versatile enough to use on various bodies of water
Light enough to carry and transport
Comfortable, adjustable foam seating makes it good for long expeditions

Cons

The Dagger Axis 12 has little to offer in the way of storage space
Like most other PVC vessels, it requires lots of storage care
Might not be as robust, as its manufacturers claim, due to the material
The inability to accommodate motors slackens its speed
Lack of fishing rod holders makes it more of a recreational kayak

Dagger Axis Kayak Review Conclusion

At the core, kayaking is about fun, but serious kayakers require more functional kayaks, like the Dagger Mamba Creeker. The Dagger Axis 12.0 is not the most functional vessel one would expect to find on the market. Nonetheless, at its price, it is still a good bargain.

Check out the Dagger Axis 12 kayak on Amazon!

If you are searching for a serious kayaking experience, this is a kayak you might want to pass over. If you are going for a more recreational kayak with a touch of functionality, and maybe using it for family trips, then the Dagger Axis 12 will definitely serve the purpose.

All in all, it is a reliable kayak with minor shortcomings that can be overlooked, especially if you are just starting out.

Historic Dugout Canoe Used Unveiled By Hurricane Irma

Apart from the havoc Hurricane Irma caused, it might have brought with it the gift of a possible archaeological discovery: a historic Indian dugout canoe. The canoe discovery has been doing rounds in the news and social media and officials say it could be either decades old or hundreds of years old. It may have belonged to the natives of Florida around the Indian River at the time.

A local photographer, Randy Lathrop, during his morning bike ride in the aftermath of the hurricane, instantly knew what he was looking at. Anyone else might have thought it was just a big piece of wood that washed up:

The old boat is said to have belonged to the natives of Florida, who used it for fishing and travel. Initial observations indicate it is approximately 15′ long and weighs between 700 to 1000 pounds according to the transporters. The canoe appeared to be carved out of a log, which experts later identified as a cypress.

The canoe was found in a place that was historically inhabited by the Native Americans known as the Ais. They were known as the “Indians of the coast” and lived along the Indian River. They were chiefly hunters and fishermen, and Hurricane Irma primarily affected their former territory.

Perhaps this explains why the canoe was found in the area. However, experts from the University of Florida explained that while the boat was used by more than one Indian tribe, it was also popular among the Seminole Indians who occupied most parts of the west coast of Florida.

The wooden canoe was identified north of Cocoa and a few kilometers from the Kennedy space center. This area, and Florida in general, has had the highest concentration of dugout canoes found, which is mainly attributed to the climate. A humid environment is conducive to the preservation of wooden artifacts.

The artifact was preserved in a water bath, pending carbon dating, which will establish how old the canoe really is. However, some of its features, according to a historian, are unique. It had a square form, a feature that was common from the 1500’s to about 50 years ago.

Surprisingly, it also had cut nails, which historians date back to the 19th century. Available features show an interesting mix, so it will be exciting to wait for the dating results and precisely relate it to our historical records.

A source from the Florida Department of Historical Resources acknowledged that the artifact was unique and if it indeed proves to be historical, it will be preserved and find its place in a museum. However, first, it has to be stabilized to avoid further degradation.

Basic White Water Kayak Moves You Should Learn In Class!

Kayaking is fairly easy to learn, but whitewater kayaking is definitely a more challenging activity. Paddling a kayak on a whitewater river can be dangerous, and occasionally deadly, which is why it’s important to be prepared and have the appropriate training.

Even fairly experienced kayakers should consider taking a class or lessons before heading out on the water. A good class or training program will teach you some of the basic moves, like the ones below.

White Water Kayaking Moves You Should Learn Before Heading Out On The Water:

1. Paddle Strokes

Learning how to maneuver a kayak through the water is incredibly important. There are a variety of strokes to master and these will be taught in a white water rafting class. The primary stroke is, of course, the forward stroke. This is the basic stroke that propels the kayak forward through the water.

White water kayaking involves specific strokes, which include low and high brace. The low brace is a slight variation of the typical ready position in kayaking and helps to prevent it from flipping in whitewaters. The high brace is used when a paddler is about to flip over so they can help to right the kayak.

The forward and back sweeps are also important kayaking paddle strokes. The forward streak is a paddle stroke that will allow the kayaker to turn the boat rapidly. Mastering this move is important, as maneuvering rapidly will keep the kayak from being flipped or caught in a hole. Similarly, the back sweet is the reverse of this move and also used to turn the boat.

2. Rolling Prevention And Aftermath

Any class in whitewater kayaking will cover rolling, which is an essential skill. The class will teach a person who has flipped the kayak to regain the upright position. There are a variety of styles for rolling, and an instructor will cover which one works best for each scenario. A class on whitewater kayaking may even allow you to practice rolls in still water, like a swimming pool.

Finally, a kayaker who is unable to roll the boat successfully will have to exit the kayak and swim. While this is not ideal, a class will help by teaching you when it would be a good idea to continue with the roll, and when to exit the kayak.

While white water kayaking can be a safe and enjoyable hobby, it is dangerous for untrained individuals. This part of the instruction is incredibly important to know before setting out.

3. Boofing

This unusual word is unique to whitewater kayaking. It refers to raising the front or bow of the kayak during a freefall. This can happen when going down a waterfall or ducking behind a boulder.

The technique is used to prevent the front of the kayak from being submerged in the water and instead, making it land flat when reaching the bottom of the waterfall. Instruction on this technique may also cover a rock boof, which is a move that uses an impact with a rock at the top of a ledge to create a firm landing and prevent a head-first fall.

4. Additional Instructions

The type and length of the class may change how much detail is provided, although basic information should always be a part of the class. The information above should be included in a beginning whitewater kayaking class.

Instructors will also usually discuss the types of white water kayaks available and which ones are best for beginning and experienced kayakers.

The class will also cover the equipment needed. Of course, the kayak and paddles are the essentials. Paddles for whitewater kayaking vary and a class will teach the differences in paddle types and may provide the opportunity to try out a few paddle options.

Other equipment covered will include a life jacket, helmet, and spray deck or sprayskirt.There may be additional equipment recommended, but these are the basics needed to start whitewater kayaking. In a class, an instructor will cover why these items are important, as well as their use.

White Water Kayaking Basic Moves Conclusion

Whitewater kayaking is a fun and enjoyable activity, but it’s incredibly important to be prepared before setting out alone. A short class is a good idea and will provide some of the basic skills needed for kayak safely. Classes vary from a few hours to a few days. Choose one that covers these topics and make sure to learn the basics with confidence.