Well first, I don't dive with $2-5,000 worth of gear to begin with, even if I bring along my camera and a pony I most likely don't break a grand. I learned to ditch gear and swim back before BC's as a last ditch emergency procedure, like dropping weight only more so. I only got close once, but got lucky. As for staying with diving, it wouldn't be the money, it would be the situation that I got into the mess that would make me think twice.
I wouldn't expect anyone to practice or even read about it, but then again OW divers read about dropping their weight belt, but how many practice? Or drop when necessary?
There was a thread in accidents that 5 divers went missing, the current was taking them away from their boat and an island. One diver ditched his rig swam to the island and was the first to alert the authorities. He was one of three that survived.
Bottom line is which is worth more, your gear or your life.
Bob
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I may be old, but I'm not dead yet.