Bob DBF
Contributor
I don't see any inconsistency in a self-reliant diver helping someone else, though it's not generally what someone means when he says he's diving "solo." I have seen the terms solo and self-reliant used interchangeably, and I like that definition. A diver could be self-reliant and help others if needed. "Solo" sounds kind of selfish and antisocial anyway.
Words are so interesting, I’d dive with you or @MichaelMc in a heartbeat, just because of the thought you put into your diving.
I started diving solo because gear was hard to come by, and training was by mentor. I learned buddy diving, more by book than practice. Yeah my solo diving is selfish, but if buddy diving I’m dead serious. Even if the other party isn’t.
I’m not a fan of “every dive is a solo dive” because it gives the wrong mindset.
As for the pony, I started using one in my late’60’s for deep dives, 120 and+ because I’m not as young as I once was, and the more dangerous ones, for the same reasons. I have never carried an extra bottle unless I was looking forward to deco, I hear that was old school.
It has been quite interesting on occasion, but unsanctioned training, and experience, has been very very good to me.
If one wants to dive a pony, it’s fine with me, but don’t believe it’s the solution to every problem.