I have built 4 piece paddles for folks before. I worked for a manufacturer.
I would use a longer ferrule in the center that would let you adjust the length and feather angle. Using standard ferules near the blades so those can be taken off. But as far as performance.... any break down paddle is going to be heavier and have some slop in it compared to the same design with a one piece shaft. You can probably get the ferrules if you contact the company and do it yourself - it isn't that tough...hacksaw, epoxy, a drill...a shot or two of Jack Daniel's...

Last edited by Bitt; 01/27/12.