What is the purpose of ferrules on oars during maintenance?

• A. They adjust blade angle
• B. They adjust feathering
• C. They connect oar sections and must be tight
• D. They connect oar to oarlock

Answer: (C)

Ferrules are the collars that join the sections of a multi-piece oar. Their purpose in maintenance is to keep those sections connected firmly so the oar stays aligned and can reliably transmit the rower’s power from the handle through the shaft to the blade. A tight ferrule prevents movement at the joint, reducing wobble and the risk of the oar coming apart during a stroke. During maintenance you check that ferrules are seated, undamaged, and tightened to the manufacturer’s specification. If a ferrule is loose, tighten it with the proper tool; if it’s cracked or deformed, replace it. Ferrules do not adjust blade angle or feathering; those adjustments are handled by other components of the oar and its fittings. They also do not connect the oar to the oarlock.