Wooden Oar Lock Pin – 245 mm (Traditional Thole Pin)

This 245 mm wooden oar pin is designed for enthusiasts of classic boating gear and those who appreciate quiet, smooth rowing. Made from solid hardwood, the pin offers natural strength and light weight. The wood is treated for moisture resistance, allowing it to withstand prolonged use in wet conditions without warping or cracking. Sized to fit matching bases perfectly, this thole pin provides a secure yet gentle pivot for your oar’s movement.

Wooden oar pins (also known as thole pins or wooden oarlock pegs) have been used traditionally in wooden boats, fishing skiffs, and classic rowing craft. One advantage of wood is that it’s gentle on your boat – there are no metal parts to scrape or clang against the gunwale. Moreover, wood will not corrode or rust, doesn’t become searing hot under the sun like metal, and remains comfortable to handle even in warm weather.

• Compatible System: This pin is intended to be used together with an oar lock base. Combined with a wooden base (code 01127), it creates an all-wood oarlock system – perfect for restoring antique boats or giving your vessel a traditional appearance. Paired with the plastic base (code 01126), you get a functional, weather-resistant setup where the wooden pin provides flexibility and strength.
• Quiet & Safe Rowing: Wood absorbs some of the vibration and noise during rowing. This means quieter movement through the water – a benefit for fishermen, waterfowl hunters, or anyone who wants to avoid startling wildlife with clanking metal. Additionally, under sudden stress (such as the oar hitting a solid object underwater), a wooden pin is less likely to snap abruptly compared to brittle materials. It has a slight flexibility that can cushion the impact.
• Easy Maintenance & Replacement: After years of use, the wooden pin can be easily sanded or replaced as needed. It’s advisable to occasionally treat it with a marine wood oil or varnish to prolong its life and maintain its water resistance. If the pin is dropped overboard, it will float on the surface, making retrieval much easier.
• Recommended Use: This 245 mm wooden oar pin is suitable for boats roughly 3 to 6 meters long, especially those with a traditional design or wooden construction. It’s an ideal choice for sailboats with auxiliary oars, classic rowing skiffs, or any rowboat where the feel and look of natural materials are preferred. When paired with the appropriate base, you’ll have an oarlock setup that is both functional and authentically styled.