With a little care, a Kettlewell paddle will last a long time. We have known many to be still in use after l5 years. All Kettlewell paddles are given three coats of marine spar varnish, brushed on by hand. Oil-based varnish, not urethane.      To refresh the finish, you need only dull the shine by rubbing with fine sandpaper or steel wool. Wipe clean, then revarnish with marine spar varnish. Urethane-based varnishes will not bond - don't use them. All paddles acquire scratches and the tips get scuffed bare. Try to refinish before the tip gets bare, before it sucks water into the wood. When the paddle dries out again, it may crack. A few don'ts: Don't leave your paddle lying in hot sun. Even though Kettlewell paddles are made with kiln-dried wood, they may warp under those circumstances. Don't push off the shore with the grip end - repairing the grip alters the shape of it and it may no longer be comfortable. Don't use your paddle for water fights unless you really want to buy a new paddle. When you have to pole in shallow water, be careful where you plant your tip, and push carefully. Don't twist it between tree roots or rocks.