Scuba Gear Guides

Balanced Rig: Understanding Proper Weighting in Diving

A Balanced Rig in scuba diving ensures that you carry only the weight necessary to compensate for the gas you consume, allowing for a safe ascent even if your BCD fails. Proper weighting is essential, as an over-weighted diver relies too much on buoyancy compensation, while an under-weighted diver struggles with control. The main debate around Balanced Rigs centers on whether to carry ditchable weights—some divers prefer a streamlined, non-ditchable setup, while others value the emergency option of dropping weight. Real-world factors like rental gear, wetsuit compression, and travel diving may require adjustments, but the key is ensuring you can swim up your rig if needed.

Save-a-Dive Kit: Be Prepared for Almost Anything

A Save-a-Dive Kit is a collection of essential spare parts and tools that help divers quickly fix common gear issues, preventing canceled dives due to minor equipment failures. There are two versions: the Mini Save-a-Dive Kit, which includes basic emergency fixes like O-rings, tools, and small accessories, and the Full Save-a-Dive Kit, which expands on this with additional tools, spare components, and repair items for local diving.