My wife and I used AquaBound twist-lock paddles for five years and were completely happy with them. Ours have carbon shafts and white composite blades (Sting Ray and Manta Ray). I recall no problems with the twist-lock. My wife uses no feather and I use around 30 degrees. They are great paddles for the money, and we only upgraded because my wife had surgery and I bought her the lightest and least aggressive paddle I could find (Werner Athena). I was so impressed I bought a Werner Kalliste for myself. My son is very happy with his Manta Ray with the black composite blade.