THIS DISCUSSION IS BY A RECREATIONAL DIVER FOR RECREATIONAL DIVING WITHIN RECREATIONAL LIMITS
Should I have some or all of my weight as quick-release / ditchable weight?
You will have to figure this out for yourself...and you'll eventually fall into one of two categories of people:- Yes...always - what you were taught
- Not necessary - "Balanced Rig"
Why are we initially taught to ditch weights?
- If you are in an uncontrolled descent you can ditch the weight and shoot to the surface
- If you are on the bottom and can not kick to the surface you can ditch the weight and shoot to the surface
- If you are struggling at the surface and your BCD fails you can ditch the weight and float easier
Why is ditching weights unnecessary?
- If you are properly weighted, you will never be in an uncontrollable descent even if your BCD fails.
- If you are properly weighted, you will always be able to swim up if needed even if your BCD fails.
- If your are struggling at the surface and your BCD fails, you can ditch your gear or use alternative floation (drysuit, smb, etc)
....If you decide you do not want or need ditchable weights what is the better way?....the "Balanced Rig"
....If you decide you do not want or need ditchable weights what is the better way?....the "Balanced Rig"