T&T: Fw: PFD for a boat hook.

[jimt2]

All things must be considered.  The length, (more or less flotation) the
taper and it's location along the shaft, (placement of the maximum of
floatation) type of wood. (degree of floatation) The finish even needs to be
considered, It will add weight with no additional floatation. But who would
want to cover up the handy non slip surface of a proper bit of ash?
Both Shaw and Tenney and Wooden Boat instructions cover this pretty well.
I've found that the balance can be a frustratingly tight proposition, but
when "ON" it's all good.  And they are truly beautiful, hanging, in use, and
swimming.
When dropped over the side, accidentally or during testing, and within the
first minute or so, you will notice that the shaft bobs up and down,
effectively extending it's "Pick Up " length, if timed appropriately.
Handy thing, the first time I erred this way.