Anybody ever try one of these reels?

[stairman]

I guess Ill bite the bullet and buy a DR or Ralph Hood sidewinder safety reel. No more of the old style reels for me as a safety where darkness and possible stress might be a factor in it birdnesting.

[DA Aquamaster]

I'll echo WJH's comments, I used one several years ago to tow a flag and it lasted less than one season before the spring failed. Once it fails the reel is basically free spinning. That is not a threat towing a dive flag but it could be fatal in a cave or wreck.

In my opinion some form of tension control on the spool is essential and a ratchet just does not cut it.

Also, with the design of the handle I cannot possibly imagine trying to use the reel effectively in a cave, or trying to carry the reel in the same hand as a backuo light. In my opinion, it fails for technical diving purposes on multiple levels inckuding quality, durabuility, functionality and safety. It is inexpensive, but when it comes to managing line, cheap is not such a great deal if it contributes to an accident or greatly delays your exit from a cave.

[stairman]

I couldnt agree more! Which gives me an idea for my next thread.

[mfascuba]

I have used one, from my instructor, and for shooting a lift bag it is hard to beat.

I prefer to shoot lift bags on exit with an AR-15 - usually something in a 55gr projectile works well.

Sorry - couldn't resist - end hijack.

Mark

[Benderr]

Have one sitting on my desk now. I use it for planting a flag on shore dives. Wouldn't consider using it otherwise.

It did almost kill me once.

It spontaneously unspooled while not in use and tangled around my right leg (my leg was bent back at the time) to the point I couldn't move it. Normally this wouldn't be a big deal, but I was being swept under a concrete pier at the time in six foot seas, and one leg wasn't enough to keep me from getting brained by the pilings. I still don't know how many dead leprechauns it took to get me out of that one.....

Needless to say, I don't do pier dives in 6ft seas any longer

[adam0321]

I have had one for about 2 years. It stays attached to my flag. Only thing. I would use it for. Very good for ow flap towing but even then it can jam