How do you mount?

[Cindy]

Lets see. I backmount if needed but don't really like it, like in Mexico or for guiding. I usually side mount. I rarely no mount. There wasn't an answer for doing all three or doing what ever needs to be done to get the dive done.

[Neptuno]

I agree with cindy, should be an all the above option.
I started sidemounting here to fit in some smaller holes and because this guys here only do SM, was ok but found no point at the beginning using a nomad harness because I could not fit in places I was fitting in backmount , but now with a boagarts clone, I do like it, that does feels better and I do fit which makes sence now.
I votes SM because is what I use now

[Herbie]

I agree with cindy, should be an all the above option.
I started sidemounting here to fit in some smaller holes and because this guys here only do SM, was ok but found no point at the beginning using a nomad harness because I could not fit in places I was fitting in backmount , but now with a boagarts clone, I do like it, that does feels better and I do fit which makes sence now.
I votes SM because is what I use now

The poll allows for multiple choices so feel free to vote for all three if it applies.

[Herbie]

Lets see. I backmount if needed but don't really like it, like in Mexico or for guiding. I usually side mount. I rarely no mount. There wasn't an answer for doing all three or doing what ever needs to be done to get the dive done.

hey freaky lady the poll says "multiple choice poll" for you cave cougars that do it all.

Edited:
oops my bad Cindy it only showed multiple choice after one checks the results or makes a choice. I have now added info to correct this.

[Dweller]

Sidemount primarily, no mount if I'm feeling frisky and it requires it.

If I'm feeling frisky I'd mount anyone, side or back.

[FW]

If I'm feeling frisky I'd mount anyone, side or back.

Anyone?

[sea2summit]

I've got tanks on my RB but I side mount my BO...does that mean I'm bi?

[Dweller]

Anyone?

you interested or just teasing?

[Unregistered User]

Strictly back mount (PST 120s) for most every cave I have done. The only times I have sidemounted were for Jug Hole (Diamonds Sands restriction) and Suwannee Blue (9' depth and low ceiling). And when I did those two it was just with PST 45s, so it was almost like wearing nothing as far as mass and weight goes.
I have noticed a heck of a lot more divers going the sidemount route, though. I wonder if these divers ever read Bill Gavin's quite logical and comprehensive article in 'The Art of Safe Cave Diving' (Ch. 5 Equipment Configuration). Of course, if the nature of the cave passage dictates sidemount config, or if one is not physically able to carry doubles on their back, or extremely long hike to cave (expedition style) then sidemounting would be the way to go. But if neither of those situations apply, then I can't see the logic in it.

[sskasser]

Strictly back mount (PST 120s) for most every cave I have done. The only times I have sidemounted were for Jug Hole (Diamonds Sands restriction) and Suwannee Blue (9' depth and low ceiling). And when I did those two it was just with PST 45s, so it was almost like wearing nothing as far as mass and weight goes.
I have noticed a heck of a lot more divers going the sidemount route, though. I wonder if these divers ever read Bill Gavin's quite logical and comprehensive article in 'The Art of Safe Cave Diving' (Ch. 5 Equipment Configuration). Of course, if the nature of the cave passage dictates sidemount config, or if one is not physically able to carry doubles on their back, or extremely long hike to cave (expedition style) then sidemounting would be the way to go. But if neither of those situations apply, then I can't see the logic in it.

It doesn't have to be a hornet's nest. Those are some good points. However, some people just enjoy diving one style better than another. As long as the configuration is safe, I see no issue in it. I started diving sidemount at the very beginning of my cave diving career for none of the reasons you listed. I hauled doubles in and out of a convertible Mustang a few times and quickly decided it was a lot better on my not-yet-injured-back to go sidemount.

There are many reasons for either, and the great thing is there doesn't have to be a "logical" reason! Dive safe, dive clean, know your gear, know your limitations, and dive whatever the heck you like!