Brishar
Contributor
Hey Fred
I too have had a insta-buddy evaporate when hitting the water. I also dive a Balance.
This is what I've done to increase my chances of coming back if I don't have any of my usual dive buddies with me.
Like Grumpy, I have a H2O Odyssey. His is set up for mounting on his main tank. I use mine the way it originally came set up, with the only exception of I swapped out the clips and used SS split rings and SS caribiners. It clips on my left chest and left hip D-rings. The bag splits open when the lease is tugged, the Velcro opens and it's in your hands. Pictures on Leisure Pro, Scuba.com, etc.
I also have a 13 cu ft, set up inverted on my main tank similar to Grumpy's, on a pony tamer mount, that I use if spear fishing or lobstering. Since I'm more inclined to be on my tummy while hunting, I like the pony on my back for this type of diving.
I also use a 30 cu ft pony, on a Dive Rite pony set up, if diving below 100 feet. I have a Dive Rite SMB and bag reel in a pouch on the front. Pictures on Dive Gear Express. I sling this on my left side.
Ultimately, it's your choice. Diving doubles would be another option. Not everybody wants to go this route and the cost of equipment and training is a serious investment. Most dive boats, unless set up for tech diving, can safely stow doubles short of putting them "under the bench." Not where I want mine when the seas kick up.
In recreational diving, in the absence of a reliable and competent dive buddy, a pony set up provides an option in case of loss of breathing mix, as well as peace of mind. Practice often, it will serve you well if ever needed. Hope you never need to use it in earnest.
I too have had a insta-buddy evaporate when hitting the water. I also dive a Balance.
This is what I've done to increase my chances of coming back if I don't have any of my usual dive buddies with me.
Like Grumpy, I have a H2O Odyssey. His is set up for mounting on his main tank. I use mine the way it originally came set up, with the only exception of I swapped out the clips and used SS split rings and SS caribiners. It clips on my left chest and left hip D-rings. The bag splits open when the lease is tugged, the Velcro opens and it's in your hands. Pictures on Leisure Pro, Scuba.com, etc.
I also have a 13 cu ft, set up inverted on my main tank similar to Grumpy's, on a pony tamer mount, that I use if spear fishing or lobstering. Since I'm more inclined to be on my tummy while hunting, I like the pony on my back for this type of diving.
I also use a 30 cu ft pony, on a Dive Rite pony set up, if diving below 100 feet. I have a Dive Rite SMB and bag reel in a pouch on the front. Pictures on Dive Gear Express. I sling this on my left side.
Ultimately, it's your choice. Diving doubles would be another option. Not everybody wants to go this route and the cost of equipment and training is a serious investment. Most dive boats, unless set up for tech diving, can safely stow doubles short of putting them "under the bench." Not where I want mine when the seas kick up.
In recreational diving, in the absence of a reliable and competent dive buddy, a pony set up provides an option in case of loss of breathing mix, as well as peace of mind. Practice often, it will serve you well if ever needed. Hope you never need to use it in earnest.
