so i am thinking of buy a 9 4 ripper from a friend. i forget what year this was made, but was told from a shop that the bamboo veneer ones were had made in either HI or CA united states.

one: is this true and what year is it?

why is the board so responsive with paddling? i stroke one time and i am going that way. it seems like its a late take off kind of board, i mean i can surf that thing well when i get a wave but i do not like the one paddle direction aspect of it.

should i use a large center fin all the way back or just not buy it? what makes a board turn so easily with one paddle stroke?

thanks for the help