I was “teaching” one day
and a paddler just could not get up on the high back deck of her boat. She was large up top, the deck was high and her strength to weight ratio and focus were not optimal. (I could say the same thing about my own strength to weight ratio)
She really did not want to do a scoop, she wanted to get in as much as possible like everybody else. Luckily, the water was warm. I felt really bad not to have a sling, so I later learned how to make one fast out of my contact tow. If I dislocate a shoulder while solo the skill might save my life. Just another ring of defense, certainly best to avoid.
(Due to her hard work and help fron last summer's thursday lake Cochituate crew she got it, but only when she focuses and kicks really hard. hooray!)
I agree with Seakayaking: things happen. Especially to carbon fiber. No reason not to be as easy on the gear as reasonable. Carry a spare unless you want to paddle out with your hands.