One caution however …
I have seen two Aquabounds carbon shafts break.
One was my four piece last summer when entering the boat after lunch stop. Broke at the pin where the blade attached to the shaft - Aquabound replaced this under warranty - no charge. I am heavy and the blade was on a sharp rock, so you do need to be a little careful. The blades are practically indestructible, however. This was an AMT Tripper.
The other was last night. I think this was a Seaquel model with a carbon shaft (yellow blades). Broke at the center joint when the person was using it to brace to exit the kayak.
Overall these are nice paddles for the price, but be a little cautious with the carbon shafts when using them to enter/exit the kayak.
I may have just had a defective shaft because I have used this paddle to assist with entry/exit numerous times since without a problem.
~wetzool