I personally own 3 Aquabound Paddles, 2 of them are Stingrays and all are carbon fiber shafts. I purchased one of the small shaft Sting Ray twist lock paddles for my daughter. She had some problems with the mechanism, but the folks at Aquabound worked with me and the problem was resolved, which means the company stands behind its product. I love all my Aquabound Paddles...it is a good paddle for the cost. I would definitely buy anyone if anything happens to mine.