My DIY / Homemade Sidemount Rigs (minimalist & heavy-lift)

DevonDiver

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• Jul 28, 2013

• #1

Just an update of my on-going tinker project with sidemount rigs. I currently have two rigs in use: the first is a minimalist webbing rig that uses a DiveRite trim pillow - primarily used for recreational sidemount or minor deco with 2xAL80 and an AL40; the second is a conversion of a 66lb Custom Divers TDB dual-bladder wing for multi-stage/mixed-gas diving (and teaching PADI tec/sidemount courses where redundancy is mandatory).

Pics and descriptions here:

Some Options for DIY Sidemount Rigs

 

beanojones

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• Jul 28, 2013

• #2

Obviously your results may vary but I talked to an educational consultant about mandatory dual bladders, and he said single bladder with buoyant tanks could pass muster.

I would not like to try and justify it in court but.

 

OP

DevonDiver

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• Jul 28, 2013

• #3

I'd like that in writing, formally with a PADI letterhead, before I adopted it.

The Tec40 allows single bladder, Tec45/50+ specifically states there must be redundant buoyancy (or drysuit). Makes it hard when people turn up for courses with a Stealth or Hollis SMS50/100 (assuming they didn't get a redundant SMS100). That leaves only the Razor, or a 'cold-water' sidemount rig.

 

beanojones

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• Jul 28, 2013

• #4

Oh I am with you on liability.

FWIW the Nomad least offers a potential dual bladder as well. Have not seen one in real life yet though. It struck me that a trim pillow could be used as a dual bladder with a single bladder rig since it it not too in the way.

 

C

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• Aug 4, 2013

• #5

I am diving the Diamond and I was thinking that as there is a spare port for inflator, maybe a second bladder could be fitted IF I ever use a wetsuit.

 

corvettejoe

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• Aug 5, 2013

• #6

I need to show you a pic of the custom ring/keeper that I have on my chest for the bungee.

Mine is similar, but instead of custom plates, I have a triangle ring up top and a square ring on the bottom.
I have 4 total pieces of webbing (2 shoulder, 1 back/crotch, one belt)

I really like your design. Simple and not retarded expensive for a "pile of webbing and d-rings"

Good stuff!

I LOVE diving mine, I call it my monkey rig.