Nice video, good detail and products. Just remember people not to overload yourself. More clips, lines and gadgets dangling increases your risk of tangling and getting in problems. Don't become a Christmas tree!
Hi Alec, still loving all your channels. I use a magnetic clip for my octopus while training as I do not have a compass on my pool reg set. I make my own clips for all my other regs sets out of 4mm bungie/elastic. I can make the loops as long and as strong as I need them. I tie a knot then cable tie the end for safety and finally I use 'polymorph' a mouldable plastic to cover any sharps. Very flexible and reasonably priced. Keep up the good work. D
It'll be 3 years in August Richard. And I've not had a moment's peace since! Between my UA-cam videos that I really enjoy, the Ranch, and travel, Diana and I have been non-stop busy. Good to hear from you. Take care. Alec
Just found this site. Congratulations Alec & Diana on your retirement. We bought almost all of our dive stuff including most of these gadgets at Scuba 2000. Remember Joe & I? We moved to Cozumel in January 2014 and miss coming in to your store to say hello and see what else is new. Maybe we'll see you in Cozumel some day soon.
Alec, please do a video on recommended suit thicknesses for various situations. When to go from rashguard to dry suit based on typical locations and depths. Could use the help in preparing for trips to the Pacific, Caribbean, and deep fresh water lakes.
Yes Alec please do this. It's something that I have very little knowledge on as a new diver. If you could include the temps in Celsius as well would be great.
Well thanks to this video, I actually made my own “DIY-Octo holder” from a used child’s bicycle helmet. Since 1989 parents of children under 7 has the option to buy helmets with a special green clip that will release if over 10 kg of force is exerted on it. So it is like the XS scuba ALT AIR version, but useable on any second stage.
10kg is way too much force to apply to release an octo. Your octo should come off quite easily in case of an emergency and not require two hands to exert enough force.
I used the magnetic holders and they work great! I had one on my SPG and on on my octo. But then, I was on a dive that needed navigation and they interfered with the compass readings. their effect can significant in some cases depending on their positions. I experimented with them above and under water, eventually, I gave them away to someone who does very shallow shore dives without the need of a compass after I explained to him why I do not need them.
They do have a strong magnetic field and can interfere with a compass. Glad you kept the compass as its a tool that can bring you back safely. Thanks for watching Jad.
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Do you know the effective range/distance in which they will start affecting it? I have a wrist mount compass and was thinking about getting magnetic holders for my octopus and pressure gauge - which I would then mount in the waist/hip region. So holding the compass in front of my face if I need it to navigate, is that far enough for it not to be affected by the magnets? Or should I get one of those"regular" octo clips and a simple clip or carabiner for the pressure gauge?
This is a really practical magnetic holder for your SPG. And look, you can attach your compass to your SPG as well. Right next to the magnetic holder. These are really practical, and your compass will always point to your magnetic holder. A lot of these connectors are great for beginning divers who don't know how to set up their BCD, because it makes them spend more money later on to replace this junk with regular boltsnaps. The only connector not discussed in this video. Attach a boltsnap to any bit of gear (except the Octopus) and snap it off to a D-ring, you know the thing designed to snap things off to. They're pretty much fail safe, easy to use, don't jam up, aren't entanglement hazards, don't mess with your compass, and can easily be moved around your body to different D-rings if needed.
It would be true if the magnet was strong and close to the compass. Few divers carry stand alone compasses, as many are integrated into dive computers. I love bolt snaps but new OW divers need to be shown the proper way to use them or risk dropping gear to the bottom (seen it many times). Maybe i will do one just on boltsnaps for beginners. Thanks for the idea. A
Nice video, I subscribed about two months ago when I discovered it. Alex , I would like to see an episode about the Scubapro Hydros bcd. Keep up the awesome job with tech tips.
I just took the SSI advance adventure cert last week, specialty cert ahead. Your videos give me more in depth knowledge than what i got from the instructor 😬. Appreciate it a lot 👍
Glad you're enjoying yourself and my vids Ali. Instructors are required to follow a curriculum and for major agencies like PADI and SSI, instructors are NOT supposed to deviate much from that curriculum. In fact, they are not even supposed to add material not in the curriculum. Personal experiences, stories, data or other things that support the curriculum is ok but not additional material that's not in the curriculum. There's actually a good reason for that based on both educational methodology and liability. We could discuss that sometime. My point is that your instructor probably did a great job for you but maybe you expected more. Take more courses particularly if you have a special interest - equipment, wrecks, marine life, etc. i don't have any such restrictions anymore so I can say and do pretty much as I please - based on my experience and opinions. That may appeal to you but realize that it's a narrow view - mine! If it works for you and helps you enjoy diving, then I'm a hero. If not, I'm a dimwit - in this context only may I add!! Anyway, enjoy your diving and keep learning. Alec
You have good credentials Alec and well worth listening too... will you in the future be doing a talk about Trimix , as all my diving have been with compressed air in the past and would like to know more about this subject.......
You need Nitrox, extended range,decopression, advanced Nitrox among otyrr courses before you learn Trimix. So a great deal of expense, few dive shops train for this and Helium is very expensive. I would suggest you take Nitrox and Sidemount diving. This will be much cheaper, easier to fund dive sites and more enjoyable. Most good stuff is shallower than 130 ft anyway.
Probably not in the foreseeable future Roy. I have used Trimix while commercial diving and am a certified Trimix instructor but quite frankly, Trimix is not a topic that is of interest or value to recreational divers. The cost in training and gear required to employ Trimix is prohibitive outside of commercial diving. Personally there's nothing I can't do underwater on anything but air. I use Nitrox because of my age (70). Spend some time reading about Trimix and it's applications if you have an interest in exploring further. Alec
One tip. Make sure that everything attached to you has a section that can be cut with a knife. In case you get snagged and stuff you want to be able to cut away. Like tying a bolt snap to something with some line so you can clip it onto to you whenever you want but be able to cut it off in an emergency. If something snags you and pulls tight you’ll never be able to undo those clips.
@@wormhole331 Thanks for mentioning that. Already fastened my pressure gauge to a bolt-snap with a cable tie. 👌 And got myself a standard plastic octopus holder. Other than that, I have no stuff dangling around.
This is a brilliant video. I don't have a dive store close to me so I can't discuss things like clips, so I look on the internet and there are so many. The two clips I have are rubbish. I've a much better idea what i'm looking for now. Thanks
I had one of those magnetic clips, and after my first dive with it I found little bits of gravel trapped in it. It seems that my dive site has a lot of iron-bearing ore sand. I found it very hard and time consuming to clean it out, and once was enough. What I did for the following dives was cut two small pieces of plastic wrap and put one over each side of the clip magnets. After diving I pull the plastic off and the gravel comes with it. Once it's away from the magnets I can easily brush off the plastic or just toss it and cut new sheets.
Good idea. I love them but it's vital that these magnetic clips be cleaned otherwise they will corrode from the attracted iron. I've had several come in to be cleaned but there's no way to renew a ruined one. Thanks Brian. Alec
Good point Gage. The compass is easily scratched or banged around and should be protected. Personally, I carry mine inside a BCD pocket and draw it out only when needed, which isn't very often. Alec
Didn't know about the retractor needing to be pulled when rinsing. Oops, lol. I always take my accessories off when I get my gear serviced so I was never scolded. Do those magnetic clips mess with dive consoles? I know mine has a compass and standard air gauge but I'm looking into getting a oceanic console that has a air integrated computer and compass setup. Not in a rush to upgrade since our family vacations for the next two years aren't really scuba stops.
Sounded like a boring topic, but Alec managed to make an interesting vid anyway. Just left me with one question, doesn't the magnetic hose mount with the compass?
This is a great channel, many thanks from germany! I wanted to ask if you could do a vintage gear video about those regulators where the mouthpiece to bite down on was replaced with a mask to cover mouth and maybe chin. I suppose sometimes they where marketed that you could talk underwater etc. but it seems they never caught on. I hope you have a clue what I'am writing about, because I don't know the technical term for them, if there is one. Of course, only if you have some models in your collection.
Hi Alec, great video as always. Just a few things. Although the magnetic clips look great, i would be fearful using it with either a regular compass or a computer compass ( or even dive computer). You showed the Butterfly brass clip ( something I too use), but you may want to make a video about the different types of clips as some call this type a suicide clip ( as cords can get clipped in it). Lastly, as a sidemount & tech diver, i use a double ended bolt snap with an o-ring that is wrapped around the hose. I recently found out standard tank o-rings are not desired as they are not really breakaway. I tried it, they are right, those o-rings are strong. They do however hold the hose well without slipping. Thanks again.
You're right Ted. O-rings are too strong to be used as a break-away. Double-ended brass clips are excellent. You can always undo them. Thanks for watching and for your ideas. Alec
Hi Alec. Really enjoy your video's. I'd like to request a tech tip about choosing wet-suits. I'm about due to upgrade my own but there is a HUGE variety of different suits and gimmicks available. With that comes a massive variety in price for what appears to be a very similar suit. How do we know whats just a sales pitch and what is actually going to help keep you warm? A few example, a simple 7mm suit may have titanium lining, Merino lining, attachable hoods, front zippers, back zippers, semi dry suits... The list goes on. cheers, Tom (New Zealand)
Yes they would, but there is always cases where the dive does not require a compass, or the person himself is not qualified to navigate such as an open water diver who does guided dives and is happy doing just that.
@@jadhalabi8624 Do you know the effective range/distance in which they will start affecting it? I have a wrist mount compass and was thinking about getting magnetic holders for my octopus and pressure gauge - which I would then mount in the waist/hip region. So holding the compass in front of my face if I need it to navigate, is that far enough for it not to be affected by the magnets?
@@BluesIsDerBeste Don't get magnets. A lot of your gear is made of brass, but a lot of it is made of stainless steel as well. Using magnets WILL interfere with your compass, and even when you remove them, they may have magnetized the stainless steel parts after prolonged use and they can still interfere with your compass. Most of the connectors in this video are junk. They're prone to failure, cracking, entanglement, and messing with other gear. Stick to the simple boltsnap for everything except your octo.
@@bloodymarvelous4790 thanks for your reply (though a bit late 😁). I already went with all bolt-snaps and got one of these standard grey plastic clips for the octo
”I like night diving, because you can’t see your buddy” 😂 Interesting that, with the flashing light...no need for a pair line during night diving. You learn ALOT from watching your videos. For free. Thank you Alec
Before I got old, I used to love driving my truck or bike at night. It was easy to see other vehicles and there was usually a lot less traffic. Now my eyes aren't so good at night so some of that pleasure is lost. Night diving is the same. You can have a great night dive without a lot of swimming because you can really only see a very small part of the wreck or reef, just what your light illuminates. It's usually clearer because the water is not churned up by divers or so much by waves. The ocean tends to calm at night. Plus it's easy to spot your buddy, or other divers too. I used to night dive quite a bit on my own. Yes, it was exciting sometimes. I have always encouraged new divers to try a night dive. To new divers or non-divers, diving into the ocean at night can be a pretty scary thought. But I'd explain the advantages including the interesting night marine life. I would tell them a cute story, largely true, about night time marine life. I would explain that diving at night is similar to walking in the downtown district of any big city. During the daytime, I'd say, the people are all attractive, well-dressed and walking around with purpose, going to work or shopping or whatever. Then about 5 or 6 PM, things change. All the daytime people go home and the night people start coming out. They are usually not so well-dressed, sometimes downright weird, and they just wander about aimlessly as if they're looking to get into trouble. The night time marine life is like that - different from the daytime marine life, a bit weird looking and acting kinda' funny too. Think about it and you'll see I'm right. Night diving is fun. Thanks again for watching. Alec
Thanks for all the videos! Learned so much! Also wanted to ask if you could give some tips on the nutrition - what to eat/drink and avoid before the dive?
If it's too close, it's certain to have an effect. If the clip in on your chest and the compass on your console or arm, say 12" or more away,.it'll be fine. Alec
Thank you. I’ve been diving for 15 years, but I find something helpful in every single video of yours. Please, please keep them up. You are a gift to all of us who just want to blow bubbles. Thank you!!
For me the boltsnap is king. It took a bit of practice but even with 5mm gloves I can now release and clip-on single-handed just by touch. I also have a loop on my wrist so I can boltsnap on a small torch or a reel in a convenient place while I'm working with it. My main point is with magnets though. I used to have a shaker, basically much like the one you show: a tube containing a ball-bearing that was held at one end until you pulled the tube out of its magnetic holder. That little magnet, I discovered, was enough to cause a 30 degree deviation in my compass even when it was over a foot distant, and the deviation was different depending on where I held the compass, which was therefore useless. My advice would be if you think you may need to use a compass, never have a magnet anywhere on your rig!
My experience is that I can use a magnetic holder for my octopus without it affecting my console compass, but when I use the magnetic holder on my console the compass is affected for sure. 'They' say that electronic compasses (in computers) are more sensitive
If you decide to use two magnetic clips for whatever reason, be aware that they come with N and S variations. I had a weird situation occur when I had a clip oneach of two hoses and when I tried to "pick up" the clip on my BCD, it didn;t happen, When I looked, I saw that the two parts of the clip were repelling each other!! Just be careful.
I love that blue magnetic coiled clip that Alec shows at the 19:09 mark. But has anyone been able to track that down? If I count correctly, the one Alec shows has about 26 coils, but most that I find online have more like 19 coils and I am looking for the longer 26 coils one with the same lanyard at one end and an easy way to connect it to my BC at the other end. I do think I found one in black, but I'm looking for the blue since I try and color code stuff, blue for camera, yellow for octopus etc. Please post a link to the one Alec showcases if someone finds it please! Thanks!
Most CO monitors are very expensive or hard to use, or both. However, I found a small, cheap detector called 'CO Pro'. It's made by Lawrence Factor, the filter people, and marketed by Trident. Your local dive should be able to get it for you. Check it out. Search . Alec
It's called the AltAir, by XS Scuba. As far as I know, they only have distributors in the USA and Canada, but you could check with the company to be sure. Here's a link: www.xsscuba.com/regulators/altair-octo
Alec Peirce Scuba my next step is finding something for my SPG at the moment I have a zip tie connected to a bolt snap but I have it connected to my right chest strap so it comes across my body, means I just have to look down and it's there, have a feeling the cable tie isn't the best method to keep it attached though.
It's something you attach to your cylinder so divers behind you can see you. The funny thing about light is that it's invisible until it hits something. So you'll see the spotlight of the torch, but not the diver with the torch in clear water.
There are 2 types of divers who use retractors. Those who are going to lose gear when the retractor cord or cable breaks, and those who HAVE lost gear when it breaks. I am in the latter group- and although I still use a retractor, it's never for anything that doesn't have a secondary attachment point (such as a gauge) or spends most of it's time inside a BCD pocket (such as my slate mounted compass). Or- it's for an item that I'm ok losing such as a contact lens case which holds my ear plugs when I'm not underwater.
Retractors come in so many styles, cable/magnetic/clip there is something for every person. I'm old so I like retractors where I can pull it far out (old eyes), read it, then let it pull back in close. Thanks for watching Steve. Alec
I've had a few retractors, they're all in the trash at this point because they don't last long before failure. Last one extended out, but would no longer retract. So I stick with bolt snaps now.
I used to defend my use of a retractor against those who said that it would inevitably fail. Wrong! It's fine. It's a great solution. Then, it failed. Never again will I use a retractor.
Absolutely. Kevin has one and used it in both. If you wet your fingers and touch the two contacts, it will light. No batteries, no on/off switch and a bright light. Check it out at your local dive store. Take care. Alec
They can throw off any compass, its just the degree based on how close it is and how powerful the magnetic clip is. Test it by pointing the compass north with the mag clip far away (nothing else metal nearby). Then bring the mag clip closer at 90 degrees to see how far away the clip is when it starts to affect the compass direction. Still better than guessing a direction but test it to know for sure the deviation it causes.
Hi, I'm trying to start a business making computer savers and different accessory attachments. could i possibly send you a set and get your feedback on it?
Sure. Be forewarned that we will NOT promote anything that I don't consider safe or of some benefit to the diver. However, we have accepted and tested some items from other entrepreneurs and have featured them in a video, usually with exciting results. Contact me at seahunter@vintagescuba.com Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Yes, and hopefully on the Great Barrier Reef early next year. I'm expecting the most difficult part might be trying to use a 2nd stage with a big silly grin that won't go away.
It can happen if the compass is within 2 ft or so of a strong magnetic field. Try the compass on the wrist or replace the magnetic holder is the compass is more important. A.
I use an ID Tether Retractor to connect the "Nutnfancy" (UA-cam fame) rape whistle to my lightweight nylon vest and my Go/Bag/Get Home Bag. Thank you for the great videos and ideas ! tjl
I don’t recommend a wrist lanyard at all, especially if it’s attached to something important or expensive (like a camera). Mine was attached to a slate and when I rolled back into the water, it actually slipped out of my wrist (I had it fastened really tightly). I replaced it with a plastic recoil with clip and it really is amazing.
I also hate things tied to me - especially wrist lanyards. How dumb1 Just because camera companies include a $0.75 wrist strap with the camera people think they must use it. A wrist lanyard makes the camera almost impossible to use easily AND it can be a real problem if you're trying to do something important underwater. Just climbing a ladder is impossible. Try an emergency ascent with your buddy on your octo!! Take care. Alec
I sold Scuba2000 a few years back and retired but still visit to shoot videos. Check out www.scuba2000.com for the store or visit. I was there last week shooting the fall series of videos.
Not a bad idea. Assuming the diver knows how to use a compass (not necessarily true in America), it's good to always have it. But are you telling me that it's a law to have it or just a strong recommendation? Alec
I said that more like a joke but there is no law or recommendation. We often dive in old flooded quarry and the visibility is not very good and if you not know the place and if you want to find the artificial wreck (boat, car, bus or plane) at the bottom it's easier to use your compass.
Same in the Netherlands because of poor visibility. Then soon you find out the magnetic octopus holder is not as great as it seemed above water since your compass won't work consistant within two feet of it.
That's how dive shops stay in business. Bet the store staff didn't tell you how to clean it. In their defense, it's not in the instructions either. Good luck. Alec
Nice video, good detail and products. Just remember people not to overload yourself. More clips, lines and gadgets dangling increases your risk of tangling and getting in problems. Don't become a Christmas tree!
chris taylor not to mention increases air consumption by greater drag.
Great as always. So many of the topics sound common sense but I learn something surprising every time. Thanks Alec!
Another great video Alec (and Kevin), don't ever give it up, you are helping all us beginners, thanks.
"I like night diving because you can't see your buddy" Made me laugh pretty hard
Hi Alec, still loving all your channels. I use a magnetic clip for my octopus while training as I do not have a compass on my pool reg set. I make my own clips for all my other regs sets out of 4mm bungie/elastic. I can make the loops as long and as strong as I need them. I tie a knot then cable tie the end for safety and finally I use 'polymorph' a mouldable plastic to cover any sharps. Very flexible and reasonably priced.
Keep up the good work. D
I've been in a slump missing something. and after watching your videos I realized it was SCUBA! I can wait for the summer to dive
I'm so glad that I provided some incentive for you to start diving.
Get out there and get wet Christopher.
Thanks for watching. Alec
Alec just heard u sold ur dive shop. What a bummer. But I understand, when retirement calls. Thanks for still giving us ur time to teach us.
It'll be 3 years in August Richard.
And I've not had a moment's peace since!
Between my UA-cam videos that I really enjoy, the Ranch, and travel, Diana and I have been non-stop busy.
Good to hear from you.
Take care.
Alec
I think one of those retractors is a must with a hose SPG. I love mine!
Just found this site. Congratulations Alec & Diana on your retirement. We bought almost all of our dive stuff including most of these gadgets at Scuba 2000. Remember Joe & I? We moved to Cozumel in January 2014 and miss coming in to your store to say hello and see what else is new. Maybe we'll see you in Cozumel some day soon.
Gosh Betty. We were just in Cozumel last year ('16) with a bunch of friends.
We sure do remember you guys. Hope all's well.
Alec & Di
Thank you so much for making these videos! As a new diver, they have been really helpful in selecting gear for my first kit.
Glad you like them!
A
new viewer here, enjoy your retirement and keep up the videos. I'm loving them.
Always a pleasure to watch your videos. Thanks also to Kevin.
Thanks for watching!
Alec, please do a video on recommended suit thicknesses for various situations. When to go from rashguard to dry suit based on typical locations and depths. Could use the help in preparing for trips to the Pacific, Caribbean, and deep fresh water lakes.
Yes Alec please do this. It's something that I have very little knowledge on as a new diver. If you could include the temps in Celsius as well would be great.
Well thanks to this video, I actually made my own “DIY-Octo holder” from a used child’s bicycle helmet. Since 1989 parents of children under 7 has the option to buy helmets with a special green clip that will release if over 10 kg of force is exerted on it. So it is like the XS scuba ALT AIR version, but useable on any second stage.
Nice idea. You can now join the 'made it myself' club of dive gear.
YES👍🦈🤿
10kg is way too much force to apply to release an octo. Your octo should come off quite easily in case of an emergency and not require two hands to exert enough force.
Great video, Alec. Very informative.
Thank you!
Alec you are the best.
Hi Alec, thanks for the tech tips again. As always, two thumbs up.
Awesome as always my friend. Montana Mike.
I used the magnetic holders and they work great! I had one on my SPG and on on my octo. But then, I was on a dive that needed navigation and they interfered with the compass readings. their effect can significant in some cases depending on their positions. I experimented with them above and under water, eventually, I gave them away to someone who does very shallow shore dives without the need of a compass after I explained to him why I do not need them.
They do have a strong magnetic field and can interfere with a compass. Glad you kept the compass as its a tool that can bring you back safely. Thanks for watching Jad.
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Do you know the effective range/distance in which they will start affecting it? I have a wrist mount compass and was thinking about getting magnetic holders for my octopus and pressure gauge - which I would then mount in the waist/hip region. So holding the compass in front of my face if I need it to navigate, is that far enough for it not to be affected by the magnets? Or should I get one of those"regular" octo clips and a simple clip or carabiner for the pressure gauge?
This is a really practical magnetic holder for your SPG. And look, you can attach your compass to your SPG as well. Right next to the magnetic holder. These are really practical, and your compass will always point to your magnetic holder.
A lot of these connectors are great for beginning divers who don't know how to set up their BCD, because it makes them spend more money later on to replace this junk with regular boltsnaps. The only connector not discussed in this video.
Attach a boltsnap to any bit of gear (except the Octopus) and snap it off to a D-ring, you know the thing designed to snap things off to. They're pretty much fail safe, easy to use, don't jam up, aren't entanglement hazards, don't mess with your compass, and can easily be moved around your body to different D-rings if needed.
It would be true if the magnet was strong and close to the compass. Few divers carry stand alone compasses, as many are integrated into dive computers. I love bolt snaps but new OW divers need to be shown the proper way to use them or risk dropping gear to the bottom (seen it many times). Maybe i will do one just on boltsnaps for beginners. Thanks for the idea.
A
Nice video, I subscribed about two months ago when I discovered it. Alex , I would like to see an episode about the Scubapro Hydros bcd. Keep up the awesome job with tech tips.
great video as always, I've learned so much from watching these. would love to see one on drysuits
Great video again Alec!
Happy for you that you're retired and glad you're continuing videos:)
Great info. You are a walking scuba book sir! 📕
Thank you kindly and I'm glad to still be walking.
Another amazing insight you have there Alec.
Thanks for watching Ali.
Alec
I just took the SSI advance adventure cert last week, specialty cert ahead.
Your videos give me more in depth knowledge than what i got from the instructor 😬.
Appreciate it a lot 👍
Glad you're enjoying yourself and my vids Ali.
Instructors are required to follow a curriculum and for major agencies like PADI and SSI, instructors are NOT supposed to deviate much from that curriculum. In fact, they are not even supposed to add material not in the curriculum. Personal experiences, stories, data or other things that support the curriculum is ok but not additional material that's not in the curriculum.
There's actually a good reason for that based on both educational methodology and liability. We could discuss that sometime.
My point is that your instructor probably did a great job for you but maybe you expected more. Take more courses particularly if you have a special interest - equipment, wrecks, marine life, etc.
i don't have any such restrictions anymore so I can say and do pretty much as I please - based on my experience and opinions. That may appeal to you but realize that it's a narrow view - mine!
If it works for you and helps you enjoy diving, then I'm a hero.
If not, I'm a dimwit - in this context only may I add!!
Anyway, enjoy your diving and keep learning.
Alec
Alec you are the hero! Keep up the scuba videos, look forward for them.
May you live long and prosper.
Thanks again Ali. Alec
You have good credentials Alec and well worth listening too... will you in the future be doing a talk about Trimix , as all my diving have been with compressed air in the past and would like to know more about this subject.......
You need Nitrox, extended range,decopression, advanced Nitrox among otyrr courses before you learn Trimix. So a great deal of expense, few dive shops train for this and Helium is very expensive. I would suggest you take Nitrox and Sidemount diving. This will be much cheaper, easier to fund dive sites and more enjoyable. Most good stuff is shallower than 130 ft anyway.
Probably not in the foreseeable future Roy. I have used Trimix while commercial diving and am a certified Trimix instructor but quite frankly, Trimix is not a topic that is of interest or value to recreational divers. The cost in training and gear required to employ Trimix is prohibitive outside of commercial diving.
Personally there's nothing I can't do underwater on anything but air. I use Nitrox because of my age (70).
Spend some time reading about Trimix and it's applications if you have an interest in exploring further.
Alec
just amazing and valuable tips .. we are luck to have you on UA-cam and hope meet you in person and learn from a legend like you..
It's my pleasure Ahmad. I'll keep on publishing as long as I can. Thanks for watching.
These videos are amazing source of information. Thank you!
Glad you like them! Lots to watch and learn from.
I'm right now in the middle of deciding what kinds of clips and fastening devices I should buy, so thank you for this video! :)
Glad I could help!
One tip. Make sure that everything attached to you has a section that can be cut with a knife. In case you get snagged and stuff you want to be able to cut away. Like tying a bolt snap to something with some line so you can clip it onto to you whenever you want but be able to cut it off in an emergency. If something snags you and pulls tight you’ll never be able to undo those clips.
@@wormhole331 Thanks for mentioning that. Already fastened my pressure gauge to a bolt-snap with a cable tie. 👌
And got myself a standard plastic octopus holder. Other than that, I have no stuff dangling around.
This is a brilliant video. I don't have a dive store close to me so I can't discuss things like clips, so I look on the internet and there are so many. The two clips I have are rubbish. I've a much better idea what i'm looking for now. Thanks
I had one of those magnetic clips, and after my first dive with it I found little bits of gravel trapped in it. It seems that my dive site has a lot of iron-bearing ore sand. I found it very hard and time consuming to clean it out, and once was enough. What I did for the following dives was cut two small pieces of plastic wrap and put one over each side of the clip magnets. After diving I pull the plastic off and the gravel comes with it. Once it's away from the magnets I can easily brush off the plastic or just toss it and cut new sheets.
Good idea.
I love them but it's vital that these magnetic clips be cleaned otherwise they will corrode from the attracted iron.
I've had several come in to be cleaned but there's no way to renew a ruined one.
Thanks Brian.
Alec
Thanks a lot for the camera tip!
Just a suggestion. On the compass mount I have had problems with my comapss bezel moving when rubbing on my bcd so be careful where you mount it!
Good point Gage.
The compass is easily scratched or banged around and should be protected.
Personally, I carry mine inside a BCD pocket and draw it out only when needed, which isn't very often.
Alec
Growing to love the intro tune haha currently saving for my first scuba course can't wait to get wet :-)
Kevin did all the intro and ending setups, I just talk and look pretty.
Glad you like it and watch.
Alec.
Didn't know about the retractor needing to be pulled when rinsing. Oops, lol. I always take my accessories off when I get my gear serviced so I was never scolded. Do those magnetic clips mess with dive consoles? I know mine has a compass and standard air gauge but I'm looking into getting a oceanic console that has a air integrated computer and compass setup. Not in a rush to upgrade since our family vacations for the next two years aren't really scuba stops.
Sounded like a boring topic, but Alec managed to make an interesting vid anyway. Just left me with one question, doesn't the magnetic hose mount with the compass?
This is a great channel, many thanks from germany! I wanted to ask if you could do a vintage gear video about those regulators where the mouthpiece to bite down on was replaced with a mask to cover mouth and maybe chin. I suppose sometimes they where marketed that you could talk underwater etc. but it seems they never caught on. I hope you have a clue what I'am writing about, because I don't know the technical term for them, if there is one. Of course, only if you have some models in your collection.
They're called "full face masks." They're used quite a bit by commercial divers but not so much by recreational divers.
Hi Alec, great video as always. Just a few things. Although the magnetic clips look great, i would be fearful using it with either a regular compass or a computer compass ( or even dive computer). You showed the Butterfly brass clip ( something I too use), but you may want to make a video about the different types of clips as some call this type a suicide clip ( as cords can get clipped in it). Lastly, as a sidemount & tech diver, i use a double ended bolt snap with an o-ring that is wrapped around the hose. I recently found out standard tank o-rings are not desired as they are not really breakaway. I tried it, they are right, those o-rings are strong. They do however hold the hose well without slipping. Thanks again.
You're right Ted.
O-rings are too strong to be used as a break-away.
Double-ended brass clips are excellent. You can always undo them.
Thanks for watching and for your ideas.
Alec
Hi Alec. Really enjoy your video's.
I'd like to request a tech tip about choosing wet-suits.
I'm about due to upgrade my own but there is a HUGE variety of different suits and gimmicks available. With that comes a massive variety in price for what appears to be a very similar suit. How do we know whats just a sales pitch and what is actually going to help keep you warm?
A few example, a simple 7mm suit may have titanium lining, Merino lining, attachable hoods, front zippers, back zippers, semi dry suits... The list goes on.
cheers,
Tom (New Zealand)
Listening Kevin? We can do that.
Added to our request list.
cheers very much! :)
Wouldn’t the magnets interfere with the compass. Good video helpful
Yes they would, but there is always cases where the dive does not require a compass, or the person himself is not qualified to navigate such as an open water diver who does guided dives and is happy doing just that.
@@jadhalabi8624 Do you know the effective range/distance in which they will start affecting it? I have a wrist mount compass and was thinking about getting magnetic holders for my octopus and pressure gauge - which I would then mount in the waist/hip region. So holding the compass in front of my face if I need it to navigate, is that far enough for it not to be affected by the magnets?
@@BluesIsDerBeste Don't get magnets. A lot of your gear is made of brass, but a lot of it is made of stainless steel as well. Using magnets WILL interfere with your compass, and even when you remove them, they may have magnetized the stainless steel parts after prolonged use and they can still interfere with your compass.
Most of the connectors in this video are junk. They're prone to failure, cracking, entanglement, and messing with other gear.
Stick to the simple boltsnap for everything except your octo.
@@bloodymarvelous4790 thanks for your reply (though a bit late 😁). I already went with all bolt-snaps and got one of these standard grey plastic clips for the octo
”I like night diving, because you can’t see your buddy” 😂 Interesting that, with the flashing light...no need for a pair line during night diving. You learn ALOT from watching your videos. For free. Thank you Alec
Before I got old, I used to love driving my truck or bike at night. It was easy to see other vehicles and there was usually a lot less traffic. Now my eyes aren't so good at night so some of that pleasure is lost.
Night diving is the same. You can have a great night dive without a lot of swimming because you can really only see a very small part of the wreck or reef, just what your light illuminates. It's usually clearer because the water is not churned up by divers or so much by waves. The ocean tends to calm at night. Plus it's easy to spot your buddy, or other divers too. I used to night dive quite a bit on my own. Yes, it was exciting sometimes.
I have always encouraged new divers to try a night dive. To new divers or non-divers, diving into the ocean at night can be a pretty scary thought. But I'd explain the advantages including the interesting night marine life. I would tell them a cute story, largely true, about night time marine life. I would explain that diving at night is similar to walking in the downtown district of any big city. During the daytime, I'd say, the people are all attractive, well-dressed and walking around with purpose, going to work or shopping or whatever. Then about 5 or 6 PM, things change. All the daytime people go home and the night people start coming out. They are usually not so well-dressed, sometimes downright weird, and they just wander about aimlessly as if they're looking to get into trouble. The night time marine life is like that - different from the daytime marine life, a bit weird looking and acting kinda' funny too.
Think about it and you'll see I'm right. Night diving is fun.
Thanks again for watching.
Alec
keep up the vids Alec
Thanks for all the videos! Learned so much! Also wanted to ask if you could give some tips on the nutrition - what to eat/drink and avoid before the dive?
Beans!
Alec
I dont own a magnetic clip on yet, but i am thinking of it. You think it will interfere with my compass?
If it's too close, it's certain to have an effect.
If the clip in on your chest and the compass on your console or arm, say 12" or more away,.it'll be fine.
Alec
Thank you. I’ve been diving for 15 years, but I find something helpful in every single video of yours. Please, please keep them up. You are a gift to all of us who just want to blow bubbles. Thank you!!
For me the boltsnap is king. It took a bit of practice but even with 5mm gloves I can now release and clip-on single-handed just by touch. I also have a loop on my wrist so I can boltsnap on a small torch or a reel in a convenient place while I'm working with it. My main point is with magnets though. I used to have a shaker, basically much like the one you show: a tube containing a ball-bearing that was held at one end until you pulled the tube out of its magnetic holder. That little magnet, I discovered, was enough to cause a 30 degree deviation in my compass even when it was over a foot distant, and the deviation was different depending on where I held the compass, which was therefore useless. My advice would be if you think you may need to use a compass, never have a magnet anywhere on your rig!
My experience is that I can use a magnetic holder for my octopus without it affecting my console compass, but when I use the magnetic holder on my console the compass is affected for sure. 'They' say that electronic compasses (in computers) are more sensitive
keep making good videos Alex!
Will do. A new one out today.
If you decide to use two magnetic clips for whatever reason, be aware that they come with N and S variations.
I had a weird situation occur when I had a clip oneach of two hoses and when I tried to "pick up" the clip on my BCD, it didn;t happen, When I looked, I saw that the two parts of the clip were repelling each other!!
Just be careful.
wouldnt a magnet screw the compass upp?
Christoffer Salomonsson Probably if it's strong and nearby. The best place for them is strapped on your wrist anyway.
Is there a season for scuba equipment, like for skiing the new equipment comes around fall is there something similar for scuba equipment?
Great video, thank you
I love that blue magnetic coiled clip that Alec shows at the 19:09 mark. But has anyone been able to track that down? If I count correctly, the one Alec shows has about 26 coils, but most that I find online have more like 19 coils and I am looking for the longer 26 coils one with the same lanyard at one end and an easy way to connect it to my BC at the other end. I do think I found one in black, but I'm looking for the blue since I try and color code stuff, blue for camera, yellow for octopus etc. Please post a link to the one Alec showcases if someone finds it please! Thanks!
It came from either Trident or Innovative.
Great Explanation.
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Alec, any thoughts on simple carbon monoxide detectors for divers to test tank air?
Most CO monitors are very expensive or hard to use, or both.
However, I found a small, cheap detector called 'CO Pro'. It's made by Lawrence Factor, the filter people, and marketed by Trident. Your local dive should be able to get it for you.
Check it out. Search .
Alec
Where can I find this octo? Is it sold in Europe too?
It's called the AltAir, by XS Scuba. As far as I know, they only have distributors in the USA and Canada, but you could check with the company to be sure.
Here's a link: www.xsscuba.com/regulators/altair-octo
@seahunter thanks for your answer, but no dealer here in europe……
Those clips for cameras are the best thing ever, let's me tuck it away in the pocket and hold it there. I also use it for my torch on night dives
Yep! There are lots on the market.
You just have to look around until you find the one that works best for you.
Alec
Alec Peirce Scuba my next step is finding something for my SPG at the moment I have a zip tie connected to a bolt snap but I have it connected to my right chest strap so it comes across my body, means I just have to look down and it's there, have a feeling the cable tie isn't the best method to keep it attached though.
Whats the advantage of this thing over a decent divetorch?
Even a normal simpel handheld torch is so much brighter then this blinky thing?
The blinky thing is a diver locating device, it's not intended for use as a primary or even backup dive light.
It's something you attach to your cylinder so divers behind you can see you.
The funny thing about light is that it's invisible until it hits something. So you'll see the spotlight of the torch, but not the diver with the torch in clear water.
There are 2 types of divers who use retractors. Those who are going to lose gear when the retractor cord or cable breaks, and those who HAVE lost gear when it breaks. I am in the latter group- and although I still use a retractor, it's never for anything that doesn't have a secondary attachment point (such as a gauge) or spends most of it's time inside a BCD pocket (such as my slate mounted compass). Or- it's for an item that I'm ok losing such as a contact lens case which holds my ear plugs when I'm not underwater.
Retractors come in so many styles, cable/magnetic/clip there is something for every person. I'm old so I like retractors where I can pull it far out (old eyes), read it, then let it pull back in close.
Thanks for watching Steve.
Alec
I've had a few retractors, they're all in the trash at this point because they don't last long before failure. Last one extended out, but would no longer retract. So I stick with bolt snaps now.
I used to defend my use of a retractor against those who said that it would inevitably fail. Wrong! It's fine. It's a great solution. Then, it failed. Never again will I use a retractor.
My retractor works for over 10 years and hundreds of dives.
Does the dive marker work in both salt and fresh water?
Absolutely. Kevin has one and used it in both. If you wet your fingers and touch the two contacts, it will light.
No batteries, no on/off switch and a bright light.
Check it out at your local dive store.
Take care.
Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter thanks! I was curious if it used the salt of the water to close the circuit. I guess not. Interesting tech!
great video
Do the magnetic holders throw off a compass? If you had several of them, could you become the North Pole?
They can throw off any compass, its just the degree based on how close it is and how powerful the magnetic clip is. Test it by pointing the compass north with the mag clip far away (nothing else metal nearby). Then bring the mag clip closer at 90 degrees to see how far away the clip is when it starts to affect the compass direction. Still better than guessing a direction but test it to know for sure the deviation it causes.
Hi, I'm trying to start a business making computer savers and different accessory attachments. could i possibly send you a set and get your feedback on it?
Sure. Be forewarned that we will NOT promote anything that I don't consider safe or of some benefit to the diver.
However, we have accepted and tested some items from other entrepreneurs and have featured them in a video, usually with exciting results.
Contact me at seahunter@vintagescuba.com
Alec
Three of your video's, and I'm feeling the urge to re-submerge.
I make you think wet?!!
Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Yes, and hopefully on the Great Barrier Reef early next year. I'm expecting the most difficult part might be trying to use a 2nd stage with a big silly grin that won't go away.
My magnetic holder messes with my compass. Anyone else have that problem?
It can happen if the compass is within 2 ft or so of a strong magnetic field. Try the compass on the wrist or replace the magnetic holder is the compass is more important.
A.
check out the OP's reply to Danny B1954 a few comments below
dont use those, they are unreliable crap.
nice video
Thank you Ron.
I hope you got something from it.
Alec
I use an ID Tether Retractor to connect the "Nutnfancy" (UA-cam fame) rape whistle to my lightweight nylon vest and my Go/Bag/Get Home Bag. Thank you for the great videos and ideas ! tjl
I don’t recommend a wrist lanyard at all, especially if it’s attached to something important or expensive (like a camera). Mine was attached to a slate and when I rolled back into the water, it actually slipped out of my wrist (I had it fastened really tightly). I replaced it with a plastic recoil with clip and it really is amazing.
I also hate things tied to me - especially wrist lanyards. How dumb1
Just because camera companies include a $0.75 wrist strap with the camera people think they must use it.
A wrist lanyard makes the camera almost impossible to use easily AND it can be a real problem if you're trying to do something important underwater. Just climbing a ladder is impossible. Try an emergency ascent with your buddy on your octo!!
Take care.
Alec
please show ur shop
I sold Scuba2000 a few years back and retired but still visit to shoot videos. Check out www.scuba2000.com for the store or visit. I was there last week shooting the fall series of videos.
In Belgium you need your compass on every dive 😁
Not a bad idea. Assuming the diver knows how to use a compass (not necessarily true in America), it's good to always have it.
But are you telling me that it's a law to have it or just a strong recommendation?
Alec
I said that more like a joke but there is no law or recommendation. We often dive in old flooded quarry and the visibility is not very good and if you not know the place and if you want to find the artificial wreck (boat, car, bus or plane) at the bottom it's easier to use your compass.
Same in the Netherlands because of poor visibility. Then soon you find out the magnetic octopus holder is not as great as it seemed above water since your compass won't work consistant within two feet of it.
Won't these lights attract predatory fish?
Possibly but not likely to be an issue.
Fish depend more on their other senses.
They know what's food and what isn't without lights.
Alec
Guilty ; I don't think I have ever cleaned my recoil device.
That's how dive shops stay in business.
Bet the store staff didn't tell you how to clean it.
In their defense, it's not in the instructions either.
Good luck.
Alec