Bolt Snaps, Retractors, and Clips: Don’t Overdo It

Clipping gear off is necessary — but easy to get wrong. Too many divers end up with dangling gear, tangled hoses, and unnecessary clutter. Keep it simple, functional, and streamlined. If it doesn’t need to be clipped off, it probably belongs in a pocket.

Bolt Snaps: The Standard for a Reason

Stainless steel bolt snaps are the gold standard for securing gear. They’re tough, easy to use with gloves, and reliable when installed correctly.

Common uses:

• SPGs
• Backup lights
• DSMBs, spools, wetnotes
• Long hose second stage (when stowed)
• Primary lights (when not in use)

Tips:

• Attach bolt snaps with cave line, not zip ties. Zip ties degrade and break over time, especially in sun and saltwater.
• Learn to clip and unclip by feel — you should be able to operate snaps without looking.
• Use the right size: small snaps for backup lights or spools, large ones for gloved use.

Retractors: Sometimes Useful, Usually Temporary

Retractors seem handy when you’re new, especially for tools like consoles or compasses. But they add bulk, tangle easily, and fail more often than you’d like.

Many divers use them as a learning crutch — for example, to keep a compass front-and-center until they get comfortable navigating. That’s fine, temporarily. Once you're confident, switch to a proper mount like a wrist strap, or stow it in a pocket.

If you insist on a retractor:

• Use a lockable one to prevent gear from swinging or unspooling.
• Rinse and inspect regularly — they don’t age well.

Plastic Clips and Hardware Carabiners: Avoid

Plastic clips and generic carabiners are unreliable. They break under load, jam when fouled, or twist into awkward positions. They’re not made for diving — skip them.

Use Pockets Instead of Clipping Everything

Clipping off every accessory isn’t the best way to dive. Pockets are more streamlined, reduce snag risk, and prevent dangle clutter. Carry your:

• Backup mask
• Wetnotes
• Spools/SMB
• Compass (if not wrist-mounted)
• Line cutters or shears (if not already on your harness)

Exception: Your primary light should always be clipped off to a D-ring when not in use — not stuffed in a pocket.

Usage Tips

• Practice clipping/unclipping with gloves in real water, not just on land.
• Label or mark your bolt snaps if you carry multiples.
• Use double-enders for temporarily securing gear or closing pockets.
• Rethink what you actually need to clip off — less is more.