Adding D-Rings to Oceanic Biolite BCD shoulder straps

[theminidiver]

Hey everyone!

Got myself the Oceanic Biolite BCD recently and it's been awesome.
But, I've been missing D-rings on both sides of the shoulder straps. There are some loops in the right shoulder, but aren't good for bolt snaps.

Anyone know if it's possible to add D-rings there? If it is, any tips or guidance on how to do that?

Thanks a lot!

 

[happy-diver]

When there is no other option or when sewing which I'm certainly geared up for, is just too much

I cut them at the weld

voilà​

 

[Jim Lapenta]

The biolite is not designed to add conventional D rings. Unless you are good with a sewing machine and are ok with taking it apart. It seems to be set up to use carabiners (suicide clips) to attach accessories. The best option, other than taking it back and getting a proper lightweight backplate and wing with a basic harness, is to use locking carabiners that can't be accidentally sprung open and trap a line or fishing net (resulting in entanglement and drowning).
While stainless would be preferred they are not cheap. Aluminum ones from a climbing or safety supply vendor would be the next best choice. Remembering that you need to be meticulous about rinsing and drying them so they don't freeze up.

 

[NW Dive Dawg]

Agree that a locking biner is the simplest solution. You can put shrink tubing over the connection area to mitigate any abrasion to the BC cloth as well as any "loosening" of the fastner. Once installed, I personally would just treat them the same as any other part of your BC as far as rinsing goes.

 

[drl]

I attached small shackles to those loops. Work like d-rings, I clip accessories to them.