retro

I’m particulary interested in the Scarecrow model…

Hey there,

M. Stephane Brun from France who is a customer of your brand and also a surfer friend gave to me your mail address. I contact you in order to get some quote information.
[dropcap1]I[/dropcap1]‘m particulary interested in the Scarecrow model but I would like to know if we can modify it into a quad fish model with the measurement 5’9 x 19 x 2 5/16 or may be something like 5’8 x 19 1/4 x 2 5/16. Do you think this kind of measurements are harmonious ? Otherwise which model do you advice me ?
My weight is about 60kg and my tall is 165cm. My level is intermediate. I would like a blank surfboard, i have also a set of FCS quad fins at home.

[fancy_box]I’m looking for a model for small and powerless waves that we have in the Mediterranean sea. I need speed to past powerless section.[/fancy_box]

Could you advice me and tell me what can be the quote for what I’m looking for, including shipping to France (Marseilles).
Regards,
Eric PELLEGRINO.

Hi Eric,

Todd here…..
Nice to meet you.

I recommend a 5’8″ x 19 1/4″ x 2 5/16″ Scarecrow.

I have a board with these exact same dimensions and it is my favorite board.

This is a very fast board, that will speed like a fish type shape, but is very high performance and will hold in and not slip when pushed hard on rail through turns. I recommend going with a five fin set-up…..this way you can ride the board as a thruster, or quad. If you prefer just to have the quad set-up I can do that, but I recommend you get the five fin since I feel that the board works very very good also a thruster.
[fancy_box]The scarecrow is the perfect board for speeding through powerless sections….like the waves in the Mediterranean Sea.
[/fancy_box]
A polyester board (standard foam and fiberglass board) is $625.00 and includes fin system and fins for a thruster set-up….upgrade to a five fin set-up with two sets of fins (one quad set and one thruster set) is an additional $45.00.
We also do the scarecrow in the Proxy/ custom epoxy technology – these start at $785.00 and include fin system and fins for a thruster set-up….or an additional $45.00 for the five fin set-up with two sets of fins.
Is your shipping address to the same location as Stephane Brun, or to a separate location? If it is to a separate address, what is that address so we can get you an accurate quote.
Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. I know you would be stoked on a magic Scarecrow. Looking forward to your reply,
Aloha,
Todd

http://www.proctorsurf.com/Surf-Boards/scarecrow

Looking to go shorter, more responsive, but lets be real, I am 50, and probably a level 2 surfer. I would probably want it in EPS

Hi Todd,

I see that you are designing on a NMC machine. Very interesting, what a great idea.

Me, 6ft, 165lbs, fit, 50 years old.  Started on a 9-6 Robert August, now on a 8ft- 3.5 inch thick pointing nose Infinity.  Learned at LA point breaks, Sunset, Malibu, Latigo.  Now surfing beach break at Venice and El Porto.

Looking to go shorter, more responsive,

but lets be real, I am 50, and probably a level 2 surfer.

I  would probably want it in EPS.

I am in Venice, very easy for me to drive up to Ventura.

Thanks for your time, and thanks for pushing the board technology forward,

David

Hi David,

Thanks for your e-mail; nice to meet you.

The perfect next level board for you would be

the Lil’ Rascal.

This board has the paddleability of a longer/ thicker board and carries the speed of a retro/ fish style shape down the line, but maintains the responsiveness, maneuverability and holding capacities of a modern high performance shortboard…..

it combines the best of both worlds into one versatile board.

Ideal dimensions to drop down to would be in the 7′2″ – 7′6″ x 22 1/2″ x 3 1/4″.

This board is ideal for the LA points as well as the beachbreaks of Venice and El Porto where you’re surfing.

I recommend the Proxy construction.

The Prroxy is my name for our uniquely handcrafted composite construction.  This is the highest grade board I make for both performance and strength.

The Proxy has the positive flex characteristic of anultralight polyester board,

but with three to five times the strength of a standard

polyester board…..and it is made custom (here in our

Ventura factory from start to finish) to the exact

dimensions that are going to be best for you.

The Proxy is slightly more buoyant which makes for good paddling and lively under your feet as well.
Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have.  I know you would be stoked on a magic Proctor Lil’ Rascal.
Looking forward to your reply,
Aloha,
Todd

Hi Todd,

Thank you for your long and thoughtful reply.  A few more questions for you.

Do you vent your Proxy boards to prevent delamination?

What would the cost be of the board you recommend, I am thinking a sand finish.  How long would it take to make?
Best wishes,
David

Hi Dave,

The core material I use doesn’t require venting…

as is the case with other companies that use a recycled form of eps….thermoformed/ molded technologies i.e. surftech as well as firewire and others use  a 1lb. or 1.5 lb typically. The recycled eps is a generic foam used in many different applications traditionally outside the surfboard industry, it is much cheaper, has very low compression strength as well as a high tendency to “vent” at high temperatures or at high altitudes due to the high porosity of the foam….ultimately this will cause foam shear or delamination.

Many companies that outsource their boards, those that mass produce outside the US, those who are trying to save on construction costs, or those that don’t understand the dynamics of different foams use this kind of eps foam in their boards. Then, they have to overcome the associated problems by venting their boards, poking tiny holes all over the skin of the glass job (as is the case with using a closed cell polystyrene) or some other weird thing to try to offset complications caused by using a poor core material.

Other problems associated with a poor core material is that you will be told to get immediately out of the water if you get a ding while surfing….this is  to prevent water absorption into the board core……which can only be removed by applying a vacuum system to it….a nightmare which you should not have to worry about….(and you don’t by the way with the Proxy system).

I use a non recycled or ‘virgin bead’ epoxy foam

that is made for surfboards

and specifically for use with our unique Proxy (custom flexible epoxy custom composite construction). The use of the virgin bead epoxy core foam and its part in the entire Proxy system of construction

eliminates the need for a valve or vent.

It is always advised not to keep your board consistently in extremely high temperatures for extended periods of time….and that goes for any kind of construction since it can weaken the resin-to-core-to-skin bond of the board.

A custom Proxy Rascal in your dims is $775.00 and includes fin system. fins, a two color spray and sand finish to 320 satin.  It takes approximately 3-4 weeks. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. I know you would be stoked on a magic Proxy Rascal. Looking forward to your reply,
Aloha,

Todd

P.S. – It might be a good idea to set up a phone or walk-in appointment if you have further questions regarding the uniqueness of the Proxy system…..it is quite different than anything else out there, but also took about ten years for me to dial in this process, so breaking it down and explaining all of its nuances is much easier for me over the phone or in person…..otherwise I end up writing novels and not getting to all the boards I’ve got on my plate.

Hi Todd,

Thank you for your detailed response.

I love a good tech response.

I’ll give a ring to the shop tomorrow and we can go over all the specs and such.
Best wishes,
David

My favorite board is that first Proxy Lil' Rascal you made for me in 6'1 x 20 3/4 x 2 9/16

Hi Todd,

A few words to tell you how much I love the boards you made for me.
Time is going and I’m thinking of a new order for the end of summer.
So I would like to get your suggestions for 3 or 4 more new boards:

1- Going to the Mentawais in October so i’m thinking of

SR 71 or Ante up in 6’8 ( 19 3/8? 2 1/2?)
Proxy + carbon hinged flex tail?

Good dimensions….maybe could go 19 ¼” width….I recommend Ante-up…are you wanting to drop the thickness a bit on these boards as to previous one’s? Do you want to drop the rail volume also just a bit. You can get away with lower rail volume for boards for Indo since the waves are so perfect and have good push to them. I recommend round pin.

2- My favorite board is that first Proxy Lil’ Rascal you made for me

in 6’1 x 20 3/4 x 2 9/16.

She’s getting old now and I’m thinking of a new one.
Should i get the same?

That is a good solid board…I would stick with the same dimensions for sure if that one is feeling that good…
Should i try that new Lill Spuddy?Same size?

Yea, I would go with the same dimensions with the round tail/ Lil’ Spuddy model.
What is the difference between them or with the Greased Rascal?

The Greased Rascal you ride a bit longer and narrower than the original Rascals, and it has the bottom and rocker of the Greased Pig, so it is a little bit more favored to small waves with shape and will surf in bigger waves also and still ride clean. It is a great board too, but similar to the Greased Pig….so I would go with your original Rascal dimensions in round tail Lil’ Spuddy model.

3-Looking for an all around Proxy Titanium series

in 6’4 (19 1/2? 2 1/2?).

G4E? Blackbird? Accelerator? Something else?

I would go with the G-4….I have a really good design file in 6’4”. This one also has the thinner volume I noticed….do you feel like you can go a bit thinner on your boards for good waves? As you progress, typically you can start riding boards that have less volume; you just don’t want to sacrifice too much paddling, but I think you could go thinner on this batch of boards especially since they are for Indo style waves.
The Blackbird is a good one too, but it favors being ridden off the back foot. The tail and fins like to release in the lip on this board, so if that is what sounds good to you then this would be a good one to run with.
The Accelerator is a bit more of a Grovel style smaller wave board and for marginal conditions ( I have been riding mine a lot lately actually), so I don’t know that it is going to be a board that is your best bet for Indo….maybe for another order or for waves at home.
Dimensions for each of these I think you could go: 6’4” x 19 ¼” x 2 ½” rounded squash for the G-4 or Blackbird, and squash, round tail or swallowtail for the Accelerator.

4-I’m surfing 50% of the time my new Greased Pig with carbon rails.

So i’m thinking of an other one 6’4? 19 5/8? 2 9/16?

Good dimensions….can’t go wrong with the parabolics and the channels work insane of this board….been making quite a few of them lately…

Proxy,Parabolic stringer + 6 channels?

Please let me know what you think about this.I’m in total confidence with your suggestions.

Let me know your current weight because I think we can drop the volume of your boards just a bit….keeping the paddle, but gaining a bit more responsiveness and performance by making the overall volume and rail volume just a bit more sensitive…..let me know what you think of this too…? I also have a new construction method where the boards are super light….they are not quite as strong as with the 6oz. like we have been doing, but they are still amazingly strong, but very very light….so if you are interested in going a little bit lighter weight I am now offering a construction series for this also. If you are happy with the strength, weight, and performance on your boards now, then I would just stick with what has been working….maybe just try one of two of the new smaller boards with the super lightweight glassing constructiong….
Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. I know you would be stoked on some magic Indo carpets.
Looking forward to your reply,


Todd

Best,
Vincent

Hi Todd,

nice to get your suggestions.

My current weight is 150lbs and i’m 45 years old.

I think i can go a bit thinner on my boards so i will follow you to drop the volume a bit but without missing the paddle too much.

Yes, I think we can go thinner without sacrificing paddle, but gaining performance.

My order would be:

1 Ante up 6’8/ 19 1/4 / 2 1/2

with lower rail volume,rounded pin
Proxy,carbon hinged flex tail …

do you want the futures or f.c.s. fin system for this board, and what color for the spray fade (two-tone light grey looks good or two tone light blue fade with the carbon hinge.

2 Lil’ Spuddy proxy. Stringerless with carbon rails?

I’m ready to try it smaller and thinner (6’0? 20 1/2 ?) if you want.

New dimensions sound good….do you want to go with tri fin or five fin setup? What color for the fade, and what fin system?

3 G 4E 6’4 x 19 1/4 x 2 1/2 rounded squash.

Proxy,construction?(Titanium upgrade?Parabolic?New super light glassing construction?)

I think super light glass with titanium parabolic would be sick for this one…..and in the two-tone light gray fade for the color with futures or f.c.s.?

4 Greased pig 6’4 /19 5/8/ 2 9 /16

Proxy,parabolic stringer,6 channels
super light glasing construction;

super light glassing is good with channels and parabolics….nice….two tone light blue would look nice to easily differentiate between the other greased pig. Do you want  f.c.s. or futures…..tri fin or five fin?

Does it sounds good to you?
When do yo think i should order the boards to be sure to get them in september?July?

It is getting very busy right now, so I think probably the sooner the better….at the very latest by July, better by end of May or June for me personally…..so I can take the time to do exceptional job…..I’m very excited about these new dimensions for you…..I think these boards are going to be your biggest progression in your surfing.
Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have.
Looking forward to your reply,
aloha,
Todd

Best,
Vincent

Hi Todd

I will put my order by the end of may.

For each board I’m ready to drop the volume a bit to

gain peformance without sacrificing paddle.

I would like 4 new boards from you:

1- Ante Up 6’8 x 19 1/4 x 2 1/2 rounded pin Proxy,carbon hinged flex tail

Futures fins ,full camo green with no fade.
I will bring it with me to the Mentawais at the end of the year.

2- Lil’ Spuddy 6’1 x 20 1/2 x 2 9/16 stringerless with carbon rails,

fin setup,Futures fins,camo green spray.

3-Greased pig 6’4 x 19 5/8 x 2 9/16 Proxy,parabolic stringer,

6 channels,super light glassing

Full camo green,no fade.3 fin setup.
Futures fins if possible with the channels,if not FCS.

4-For the last board i think i will take another four leaf clover

because i love soo much this board.

What would you say of:

4 leaf clover  6’4 / 19 3/4 / 2 9/16 diamond tail super light glass with titanium parabolic in the two tone light gray fade
Future fins with AM2?

Please give me your advice for this final order.Do you think i should change anything?
If it’s OK for you could Charissa send me an advice around the end of May for Paypal payment?

Best,
Vincent

there are three board models that I make that I’ve narrowed it down to for you

Name: Jeff

Age: 34

Height: 5’8

Weight: 185

Experience: intermediate 15yrs (live inland thought)

Type of board you’re interested in:

Short board that paddles like a fun board

Type of waves you will be surfing with this board:

NJ inconsistent mush, 1-3′ summers, 4-6+ Fall, annual trip to PR or CR. So basically an all around

The direction you want to go with your surfing:

I only get out 20 times a year,, so I want to catch every wave. I ned something that is willing to hit the lip but also paddle my weight around like a speed boat.

What boards are you currently riding?

Rusty Pirahana 6’0″ 20.5 2.18 thick Surftech. (Just does not float me) Hank Warner thruster 6’6″ 20.5 wide 2.65 thick Board does not hold thickness throughout, tail it thin, nose is narrow. I was just about to order a firewire Dominator 6’4″ 21 wide and 2 5/8″. Then I can across your company in a review search. What would you recommend. Although I no longer get out as much as I did in my youth, I really like to make the most of my sessions regardless of the conditions I am faced with. I use a vasa trainer to maintain some sort of surf conditioning, I just need a board that can help fill in the gaps and float my fat ass.

Goal for consultation:

I would like to detail/order my custom surfboard with Todd

Hi Jeff,

Sorry to not get back to you sooner…just been really busy here….

Anyway, nice to meet you and I hope you had a great Easter weekend.

Regarding the magic board for you….

there are three board models that I make

that I’ve narrowed it down to for you -

The Lil Rascal,

…………                the Greased Pig,

or the Big Chief (fuller volume G-4.e).

Since there is a pretty wide range of conditions you described…

you will need a board that is going to be

versatile from small and mushy to overhead

depending on your home conditions or travel spots.

The most versatile high performance shortboard

I make is the G-4.e.

This board generates it’s own speed in small waves, yet holds in and surfs fast and tight in the pocket in the punchier stuff.

The Big Chief is a fuller volume version of the G-4.e

and will tend to favor the waist high and over, up to a couple feet overhead….it is a versatile performance shortboard. Critical for you with this board is going to be the proper volume so you get the paddle necessary since you are not able to get out there everyday….I would go 6’3” x 20 3/8” x 2 5/8” with a swallowtail for this one.

The other way you could go is a board called

the Greased Pig….this board is basically a

high performance fish/ shortboard crossbreed…

flatter rocker keeps it running fast through the flats, but it is not so flat that it can’t handle up to head high waves great too. It has more of a full outlined shortboard nose with a single wing swallowtail to keep it crisp and responsive in maneuvers. This board would work great at your home breaks as well as travel destinations up to head high and even a little over….

this board is a small wave ripping speed machine

with great paddleability.

I recommend going 6’2” x 20 5/8” x 2 5/8” with a slightly fuller rail and flatter deck than that of the Big Chief.

The last board I had in mind is called

the Lil Rascal and is the fastest

small wave performance board I make.

It can also be ridden in waves up to head high, but favors the smaller and mushier stuff. It paddles insane and never has trouble generating speed….

basically has the speed of a retro style fish with the maneuverability of a performance shortboard.

Dimensions for you would be 6’0”- 6’1” x 21” x 2 5/8” with a pretty flat deck and even a bit fuller rails than the Greased Pig.

In order for me to figure out what is going to be the ideal model for you to go with,

It makes it much easier for me to

speak with you directly,

but feel free to check out each of these board models I described above by going to

www.proctorsurf.com

and checking out the descriptions and you can watch movies about the different boards too….hopefully this will help give you an idea as to which one strikes you as the direction you want to go with your surfing….from there I can further detail  the fine tune aspects of your board.

Looking forward to your reply,

Aloha,

Todd

Heavy front footed surfer, live in San Diego and surf all up and down the SOCAL coast

Todd,

I like your ideas in board construction

and I’m in the market for a new shortboard.

My info is below.  Which board would be best for me and if you think I should order a custom board, what is your opinion on the shape I would need?  Thanks in advance for your reply.

6’2
185 lbs

Heavy front footed surfer

I live in San Diego and surf all up and down the SOCAL coast.   I have been surfing for 10+ years, but am still struggling to progress.

I can do a few good turns on a wave,

but am not killing it and often catch rails.

This will be my primary shortboard and will replace a 6’3 Sharpeye (19″ wide) which rode ok, but I don’t think it fit my front footed style.

Any ideas???

God bless,
Jonathan

Hi Jonathan,

Sorry to take so long to get back to you…been very busy here…Anyway, I read through all of your info you sent through and I know the magic board for you….
First off,

the board you have now sounds like it is too small and has a rocker/ bottom curve and bottom contours that don’t suit your style i.e. front-footed.

There are a lot of front-footed surfers just like you and that is why

I designed a board that specifically caters to driving more off the front foot.

This board is called the G-4.E

and it is actually my most versatile

high performance shortboard design….

perfect too for the variety of waves we get in Cali.

The G-4 has

  • a moderate entry rocker to get you into waves easily,
  • a flatter fun through the middle/ under your front foot for bursts of speed down the line
  • and positive carry through flat spots (non-rail digger),
  • and a fair amount of tail rocker to keep it crisp and loose in turns and free in the pocket.

The single-to-double concave bottom is also a major important factor for you since this particular hull contour drives really well off the front foot.

I think you ought to be going 6’4″ – 6’5″ x 19 1/8″ x 2 1/2″ and

I think you might like a swallowtail….

helps keep the tail looser and works well

for more front-footed surfers.

I make this board in the traditional polyester construction as well as our unique Proxy/ custom flexible epoxy construction. The standard polyester is $585.00 and includes fin system and fins, while the Proxy is $735.00 and includes fin system and fins….both construction methods are made with the best materials for their perspective categories as well as using the highest craftsmanship, however, Proxy is the premium board I make for both strength and performance.
Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. I know you would be stoked on a magic G-4.E. Looking forward to your reply,
Aloha,

Todd

Todd,

Thanks for the reply and no worries about the short delay.  I’m definitely interested in the G-4.E.  I’ll take your advice and move up to a 6’4 with the dimensions of your choosing for my height/weight/style info.  I’ve never had a swallow tail, but am willing to try it out.

This will be the shortboard I travel with

so I want it to be as strong as possible.

Therefore, I’ll go with the Proxy.

Do you recommend any of the other proxy options?  Are their any other choices I need to make before placing my order?  Thanks Todd!

Jonathan

Hi Jonathan,

Ok sounds good…I think we’ve covered all the design/ shape info pretty good…so as far as upgrades to the Proxy goes…
The standard Proxy construction is really strong as is…

there are a few upgrades you can get such as

Kevlar compression patch for an additional $85.00 -

I would recommend this if you have issues crushing in the decks of your boards really bad;

it this isn’t really a problem, then the added strength of the standard Proxy is going to work great for you.

Another option is the carbon hinge flextail f

or an additional $85.00 -

this works pretty sick since it allows me to thin the tail area out a bit giving the board a real whippy tail through turns; kind of a slingshot effect;

the carbon keeps the tail from fatiguing in that area as

well as reinforcing the toe and heal areas of the tail

from crushing in over time (good also if you have

issues with crushing in the rails in your tails).

There are also parabolic stringers which are an additional $100.00 if you want a real springy flex out of the board.
Personally, I would just go with the standard Proxy with maybe the carbon hinge in the tail…that gives you a high performance board with great strength.

The only other thing would be the color for the board.

The Proxy comes included with the price of the board a two color spray…

since you’ll be having this board around longer than a typical construction board, it keeps them from looking dingy over time….alleviates the yellowing look. Check out this link to see the various options for color that come with the board

http://www.proctorsurf.com/Surf-Boards/?page_id=238

Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have.  Once you decide on those last few things, my wife Charissa will send you the breakdown and invoice to your e-mail. You can do an e-sign with credit card or debit card for the down payment…final payment due when the board is done. Or ir you prefer to call in to the factory showroom to dial things in you can call me here at (805) 658-7659.

Looking forward to making a magic Proxy G-4.E for you,
Speak soon,

Todd

Todd,

Cool.  I will order the 6’4 with specs you’ve mentioned below.

I’ll add the carbon, but not the kevlar.

For the color I’ll go with the standard fade design with the “SKY” color.  Looking forward to it.

One of my best friends should be contacting you about a board soon, if he hasn’t already.   He just got back from another deployment in Iraq and will be giving you a call.  His name is Greg Pruett….another brother in Christ.  We went to college together and are now in the Navy.  Keep an eye out for him.

God bless,
Jonathan

Hi Jonathan,

Great…then we’ve got it dialed. Charissa will be sending over the breakdown for you. She will walk you through that part of things….it’s very simple. Do you have a preference regarding the logo placement?

I was thinking black logo up in the nose,

or running diagonal from the stringer over/

down to the rail…

lemme know…
I’ll make you a great board. Please let me know if you have any other questions along the way. We will call you and/ or e-mail you when the board is done.
Thanks brother and God bless you too :)

Todd

P.S. – I’ll keep an eye/ ear out for your buddy Greg..

Twin Fang, Quad Fang fish surfboard dimensions

Hello,  my name is Alex,

i was looking the boards on your website,

and i like the twin fang, and the quad fang,

but i’m not sure about the length, width, and thickness…

im 6’2, 192 pounds,

i’m not a very good surfer,

i can do  small cutbacks and snaps,

nothing  powerful….

i still have some problems on speeding… i usually surf on knee to chest conditions
could you tell me what length, width, and thickness, you think would be good for me…also, which one of your boards….

thanks a lot

Hi Alex,

Sorry to not get back with you sooner….It was my birthday and I took a couple days off to surf out the last swell.
What are the dimensions and basic shape of the board you are currently riding? and what are the waves like where you surf? i.e. where are you writing to me from?
This will help me to dial in the exact right dimensions for the magic board for you.
Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. I know you would be stoked on a magic Proctor. Looking forward to your reply,
Aloha,

Todd

Happy birthday!!!    and Its ok , lately ive been really busy too.,,

i’m from brasil, i’m 18 years old,

and i’m spending a few months here, i just bought a used surfboard, its 6’1, fish, quadrifin, and a deeeeep double concave.  it feels like skateboarding..
the waves i usually surf are waist /knee high, sometimes bigger, here, on California,

i’m surfing at oceanside, san clemente, this area…

and the waves where i live in Brasil,

aren’t much different..

i’m looking for a board that can help me to improve my surf…
a fast board.. i really liked the fish models (twin fin and quad fang) but i dont know if they are the right model for me..
what do you think?
peace

I trust you to give sound advice and help me cut through the hype and confusion

Hey Todd,

I am absolutely loving the quad board

you made for me a year or two ago–

#6902, 6’6″x19″x2.5″.
If you recall, I’m 5’9″, about 158 lbs, and in really good shape.

It is my main board for almost everything

I encounter between Oxnard and Jalama.

It has really taken my riding up a huge amount– I am ripping all over the wave, turning much faster and harder, able to take off better and really get into the waves and take lines I had always dreamed of but couldn’t pull off.  It is so much fun pumping the board up and down the face, generating speed, then cutting hard on the top of the wave and on the bottom of the wave.  At Rincon I can take a big drop, make a nice bottom turn, and pump down the line and get around sections….all that great stuff I really struggled with before…

I have yet to find a situation where it feels better as a thruster than as a quad.

It feels like the board paddles faster and also moves faster as a quad,

and probably because I am a front-footed

surfer to a fault,

(years of skateboarding I guess),

it never feels too loose for me.

My bottom turns have really progressed and gotten much more aggressive, so the quad does not feel too loose for my style and technique.

Despite my total satisfaction, I am wondering about a second board.  It would be a step-up board–

something that helps me paddle into bigger,

juicier waves like you can get on a

good day at Tarantula’s–

well overhead to double overhead.  I had really good luck with a Becker 7’6″ mini-gun thruster design up there– it got the waves early, held great and caught the face even on almost vertical or air drops, and was very maneuverable once it was flying with the kind of speed that a big, powerful wave generates.  But I dinged that board (someone else dropped in on me and cut it up bad) and it was never the same after the repair (nose felt too heavy) so I sold it.  I picked up a used 7′ Matt Moore thruster, and it feels great, but doesn’t seem to have enough volume and/or length to actually catch big waves very well.  I am a strong paddler but I have seen stronger out there, especially on North Shore Hawaii.  Even though the MM 7′ board is longer and probably has more volume, I think the 6’6″ quad board you made me actually paddles faster!  I  haven’t actually tried the 6’6″ at T’s on a bigger day, but  I probably will try it until I have something else…

So I was at Jalama just yesterday, with well overhead to double overhead set waves, and I was using my Clyde Beatty Rocket Fish, approx 6’4″ length, big twin fin with tiny little baby trailer fins for a quasi-quad.  (I was expecting it to be smaller up there so I took  the Fish.  I was pleasantly surprised that real sets were still coming in, I guess you could  say.)  It had the huge advantage of paddling power for catching the waves, but of course felt too squirrelly to try any big moves- I had to be ginger with any bottom turns and carve careful lines.
Despite its loose, skatey feel, I have to say that I absolutely loved the extra paddle power I was getting with the Rocket Fish– reminded me of the extra paddle power I had been getting with the Becker mini-gun.

On top of that, I read all about Kelly’s exploits on this weird, tiny, thick board he made that is more or less a K-Step board with the nose cut off.  And I know that good riders are pulling into heavy waves like Pipe on boards way shorter than I would think could be used….so it raises the question, is it really more about total volume, or is length also essential for holding on the wave during and after the drop?

Or, is wave face holding really more

about rail/tail shape and fin setup?

Clearly, if Kelly can ride a 5’6″ or something board at places like Teahupoo and Pipe, length is perhaps not such a critical issue.
Tow-in boards are short, too, so by simple deduction I have to conclude that length is not the crucial factor for big-wave holding power– it’s really more for paddling power.  Then again, the tow-in boys don’t have to deal with vertical semi-air drops, either.  But, if a short, thick fish can have plenty of paddle power, maybe I don’t need a gun or mini-gun for bigger days when I mainly just need to paddle faster??

So, anyway, bottom line is I am kind of wondering whether something just a touch thicker, and/or a touch wider, and/or a touch more pin-ny in the tail, and/or with slightly bigger fins would be the ticket for a step up board that would help me in bigger, stronger waves, but that would still feel a lot like the board you already made for me.  Something that would potentially perform as well as my 7’6 mini-gun, without actually being a minigun?  Something that is also good for a front- or center- footed surfer?

It shouldn’t feel too loose in a big,

fast wave, but should feel loose

enough in smaller waves, too.

Finally, why not just get a mini-gun?  Well, I guess I still am thinking there is a board out there that really should work well for me in almost anything I will  encounter here in So. Cal— if it’s just got a bit more paddle power than the board you already made for me, and holds well at high speed, then it should work in just about anything.  If it’s strictly designed for big waves, then I worry it will feel sluggish in the small stuff, and I will have to bring at least a two-board quiver on some of my surf quests.  I would rather look at the buoy readings, make the call and pick one board, and if when I arrive at the surf spot it turns out I made the wrong board choice, the board still works pretty well.  One time I took the Becker to Jalama and it was way smaller than I was expecting– below head high with only Cracks working– and that board totally sucked in those conditions.

In fact, for now, I think on my next big wave session I am just going to take the 6’6″ board you made for me and see if I can get the job done with that board….I suspect that if I can paddle hard enough it will take great care of me once I’m on the wave.  Put it this way– I was way happier making do with a Rocket Fish on well overhead waves than I was making do with a 7’6″ mini-gun on shoulder high waves– the fish still made for an epic session and the mini-gun was total crap.

Of course, for a “step-up board” I would just as soon go with one of your more stock designs rather than a fully custom design if you think you have something that you would recommend.  I think I read somewhere that you are  combining one of your groveler designs with the Blackbird design…maybe something like that is the thing to go for?  Maybe a board with slightly more volume than the one you made for me, possibly with two different fin setups- bigger fins for well overhead,  and smaller ones for head high and below waves?

Anyway, I immediately thought of you because

a) you already made one “magic board” for me;

b) you are a very progressive shaper

and are thinking about these kinds of things; and

c) I trust you to give sound advice and

help me cut through the hype and confusion.

I have surfed Hawaii North Shore in double-overhead + at Haleiwa, Lani’s, and Chun’s, and I know first-hand that I will probably still try to get hold of a serious 8′ mini-gun or something when I am there, because those waves were insanely fast, thick, and powerful for their size– like nothing I’ve ever seen anywhere, and those boys over there can paddle like nothing I’ve ever seen before, too.  But I am starting to think that there is a more conventional board shape that should work well for me in just about everything that we see here, even on our biggest west swells– something that is not necessarily a mini-gun or gun design.

Granted, those North Shore boys are

on a whole different level–

they were still using boards about a foot shorter than me and doing just fine….so I realize that it’s not just the surfboard, it’s the surfer, too.  If I could paddle like a pro or a North Shore local I probably could do it all on the board you already made for me.

But I’m just an intermediate surfer,

don’t do contests, and am looking

for a board that works for me,

not a board that works for a pro.

Thanks and I look forward to hearing your thoughts–


Chris M

Hi Chris,

Good to hear from you. Sounds like you’ve been well and been getting plenty of waves. Stoked the board we did is going good for you!!

I always enjoy getting the feedback

from everybody…so cool…

Anyway, I read through your very thorough breakdown; thanks, good job on explaining your thoughts; it has helped make it very clear for me to know exactly the direction you should go.

You are spot on with your ideas

regarding overall volume for paddling

as opposed to just length.

In the majority of the waves we get here in California anyway, you can get away with a shorter board if the overall volume matches what is right for you as an individual surfer. Judging off what you have written here and the dimensions of your last board, I think you could stay with the length of 6’6″ but go 19 1/2″ x 2 5/8″ with a thumbtail. This will give you the paddleability necessary for the bigger/ hollower days when more water is moving.

The thumbtail comes in good on those

days too with a nice positive hold in the power.

I would keep the rail volume close to the same as your current board; maybe slightly fuller, but mostly just more foam in the middle for paddling and

keep the deck domed foiling down to a rail

that is still going to be responsive and

positive through turns.

I would keep the same overall rocker and hull contours as that particular rocker is very versatile generating speed in smaller waves, yet still holding in on the powerful ones. Possibly just a touch less entry rocker for early entry into waves and increased drive down the line and carry through flat spots…same tail rocker.
Let me know your thoughts. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. Looking forward to your reply, Aloha,

Todd

Hey, Todd,

That sounds like the ticket.  I think I will order this from you, but not right away– in a month or two.

Chris M

Ok Chris, Sounds good….

just lemme know when you are ready to roll, or if you have any other questions please don’t hesitate to ask.
Have a great day,
Aloha,

Todd

Is the Quad Fang better in very small waves than the Rascal?

Hello,

I have a question is the Quad Fang better in very small waves than the Rascal?
if it’s better perhaps we could change model for my order.

Can you explain the difference

between these two boards

in very little waves?

Thank a lot.
Christophe

Hi Christophe,

The 5’7″ Rascal you chose from stock is the ideal board for you….and is a super sweet board. You are going to be stoked!! The Rascal is just as fast as the Quad Fang or Twin Fang,

but the Rascal is much more

responsive and high performance

of a design;

the Twin Fang and Quad Fang models are a bit more retro feeling board and not as quick through tight turns as the Rascal….so you have made the best choice.
Thanks for the order….I’ll be looking forward to hearing your feedback. Aloha,

Todd

Visit this board in the online surfboard shop

what are the waves like that you need a Rascal for?

Hi Proctor Team,

I live down in Huntington beach and have been hearing a lot of good things about your boards.  I was wondering if there was a dealer close to Huntington so I can walk in and take a look at some boards, or is the only shop in Ventura?

All the best,

Lawrence

Hi Lawrence,

I build the majority of my boards custom…

direct to surfers,

so I do not deal with accounts really except for distribution companies outside of the U.S. The best thing would be for you to come up to our Ventura factory/ showroom…this is where all the boards are made. If you can find a way to make it up, it really is worth it. The best thing to do is to set up an appointment letting us know when you are coming up and I can meet with you, show you the different board models we have in stock here that would work good for you…It is a good idea to bring your old boards to show me what you are coming off and the explain to me the direction you want to go with your surfing i.e. more carvy, more airs, fins free stuff, etc…

then I break down what is going to

be the best board design

and dimensions for you to go with to get you where you want to take your surfing. That is what I have done for over 17 years with surfers and this unique personal approach really gets you the board that is going to be the best for you.
Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have.
Looking forward to your reply,
Aloha,
Todd

Hey Todd,

Many thanks for the email.

Your website is probably the most

informative website

I have come across in my search for the ultimate small wave board.  It doesn’t take much to get me up to SB.  I’m traveling a fair bit the next 2weeks for work, but will try to make it up during the latter part of Feb.  I’ll keep you posted. Look forward to visiting the shop.

All the best,
Lawrence

Sounds great Lawrence,

I look forward to hearing from you/ meeting you later in the month.
Aloha,
Todd

Hey Todd,



Is the shop in ventura open on sunday? Do you also carry used boards? If so do you have any lil rascals in the 6’3 to 6’6 range?

All the best,
Lawrence

Hi Lawrence,

Sorry to take so long to get back with you….had a lot on my plate lately…anyway, we are not open on Sundays, but we are open Saturdays. I don’t have any used Rascals in that size range at the moment, but I may have a friend who is going to sell a 6’6″ Rascal….he is sizing down to a 6’3″. He really likes his 6’6″ but has recently dropped like 20 pounds so is ordering a smaller one, but probably will be looking to sell the 6’6″ maybe….I could check into it if you like? What is your height, weight, age, how long have you been surfing,

what are the waves like that you need a Rascal for?

If you let me know those things, I am more than happy to detail the perfect dimensions/ design for a Rascal for you. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. I know you would be stoked on a magic Lil Rascal. Looking forward to your reply,
Aloha,
Todd

Hey Todd,

No worries…

I grew up surfing on the outer banks

(North Carolina),

started surfing in the fifth grade…In 2001 I moved to New York where I worked in finance. by 2006 I was married, just welcomed my first daughter into the world, and could count on two hands the number of times I had been surfing.  Life’s too short…we pulled the rip cord on NYC beginning part of 2007 and moved to socal. I’m still in finance, so 2008 was an interesting year, but still able to spend more time with my girls and in the water…

I’m 6’3, 190-200lbs, and 30yrs old.

grew-up surfing longboards and your typical shortboard thruster range in size from 6’8 to 7’0. Looking to broaden my horizon on surfboard design to challenge and improve my surfing..I think the rascal would be a good substitute for my longboard, plus I live in Huntington beach,

where the waves sometimes have soft shoulders

even when chest to head high and would be a good substitute for my shortboard.

I have never really surfed fish designs…

so this is a new experience for me. if I had to guess the optimal dimensions on a rascal for me would be 6’3,21, 2 3/4… but to avoid early frustrations, I might want to get something a little bit larger..what do you think?  experienced wise, I would classify myself as intermediate..not taking anything vertical, but I love speed and power moves…

Many thanks,
Lawrence

RASCAL SERIES ONLINE SURF BOARD SHOP

My dream is to find something in between that is shaped for high performance rail to rail surfing and that can hold my 6'1", 245 lbs frame

What’s the biggest you can you with the Chief – 8′-8’6″.

Regardless, I am just glad to finally have found someone that can

relate to us the 80′s surfers that have

grown in size…just a bit ;)

Ro

Hola Ro,

Yes, you can order the Big Chief in the

8’0″ – 8’6″ range.

If you let me know your height, weight, surfing experience and the type of waves you surf, i will detail the perfecto tabla para tu.

Todd

Todd,

I am an 1980′s- 90′s, surfer and

became addicted at the age of 11 (i am now 41+).

I swore that the day i had to ride a long board I would quit..well guess what?

About the only thing that floats and works for me is a 9’2″-9’6″ High performance 2+1 fin system Longboard. x 17 1/2″ x 22″ x 14″ x 2 3/4″-3″, with good rocker in the nose and tail, double into singleconcave, reverse V from the tail to the fins, round pin tail and SUPER boxy and sharp rails..specifically on the tail.

All that topped with a sanded finish painted white with white fins. Believe it or not, I ride the thing like if it was a 5’8″-6’0″ back in the days, rail to rail, hitting te lip and floaters ( i have problems with round houses wit the longboard), and I NEVER go near the nose.

My dream is to find something in between

that is shaped for high performance

rail to rail surfing and that can hold

my 6’1″, 245lbs frame

(well proportioned..i work out).

I can surf and don’t need some out the

rack fun or longboard. you feel me?

I have seen other shapers making some type of HP funboards and wonder is that is what I need. I don’t want a short board in a longboard body.

What can you do for me brother without having to go thicker than 3″ and wider than 20-21 with a round pin ., EXTRA BOXY and sharp rails, the concaves and V on a tri set up.

Cuanto dinero and would you ship and or can pick up around here somewhere locally in Northern FL.

Thanks,
Ro

BTW.. Your funboards look like hey are shaped for performance and from what I can see. they have all the goodies? Would it be a better fit for me than the Chief?

Ro

Ro,

I just read the last part of your e-mail again regarding the pricing for a board like this.
A 7’8” x 21” x 3” Big Chief or Funshape is $625.00 for poly construction (standard foam and fiberglass), or $750.00 for our unique “Proxy” custom flexible epoxy construction….this is the premium board I make i.e. stronger, lighter, slightly more buoyant. Both prices include fin system and fins. We can ship your board directly to you in Florida. We have much experience with shipping custom boards worldwide for over 10 years with great results. Packing and shipping to your door would be approximately $125.00 including insurance.

Looking forward to your reply and to the possibility of making you the magic board for your build and surfing experience….for you to rip on.

Just for your information, payment of 50% of the total price gets the board started. It takes approximately 2-3 weeks to complete the board at which time the final payment is due prior to shipment.

Since the sale is out of state….you don’t have to pay any tax….so that is a nice thing that saves you some money too.

Aloha,

Todd

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