Tool Bag and Individual Tools

[SlugLife]

I dug up my extensive list from some previous posts, which also include pictures:

Building a Save a Dive kit

So besides the basic stuff as in : Basic wrench’s Allen keys Spare O rings Spare mouth piece any suggestions on some must haves ?

scubaboard.com

Building a Save a Dive kit

@SlugMug Can you post a pic and the tool bag you use? I'm always torn between keeping my kit compact and wanting to be able to handle more issues. Curious how compact you got all that stuff. The tool-bag I use is okay, I seem to remember getting it discounted at Harbor freight. Honestly could...

scubaboard.com

I may create an updated list in a day or two if I have time, but it hasn't changed that much since then.

 

[Boarderguy]

I like the thin profile and parallel surfaces. I'd like to see that in action. Are you thinking of that in lieu of the fixed spanners? Maybe have two, one to hold the reg side in place and torque with the hose side.

 

[SlugLife]

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While I don't have Knipex in my save-a-dive kit, I can confirm they're an amazing and high-quality tool. I have the 10-inch version, and have used it for all kinds of purposes, including bending metal.

 

[Wants2divemore]

Don't take ANY tool on an airplane, that is just asking for a confrontation with TSA.

The MyTSA app has the complete list of what you can bring, which is also on the TSA website. Tools under 7" (measured end to end) are specifically listed as being allowed in checked and carry-on luggage. They do say "The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint." but I've never had any problems as long as you don't have a multitool with blades (multitools without blades are allowed). I prefer to pack my dive gear in my carry on and pack my clothing in my checked bag. I'd rather wear the same clothes for a day or two than have to rent dive gear.


It's clear the TSA has a bit of a sense of humor, considering the following item on their list:

Light Saber​

Carry On Bags: Yes

Checked Bags: Yes

Sadly, the technology doesn't currently exist to create a real lightsaber. However, you can pack a toy lightsaber in your carry-on or checked bag. May the force be with you.

 

[RobPNW]

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Nice. I'm tempted to go with 2 knipex tools and skip the fixed spanners. Then I have them for other things when not diving.

 

[Boarderguy]

Nice. I'm tempted to go with 2 knipex tools and skip the fixed spanners. Then I have them for other things when not diving.

Brand new the 5" are a bit stiff to move and adjust. The set I keep at work broke in pretty quick. My dive set hardly get used so they're still a bit finicky. All my larger ones were gold from the start.

 

[RobPNW]

Brand new the 5" are a bit stiff to move and adjust. The set I keep at work broke in pretty quick. My dive set hardly get used so they're still a bit finicky. All my larger ones were gold from the start.

Considering this tool bag is a compromise between weight/size and functionality, what's your guess for sweet spot size on this application? Like 6"?

 

[RobPNW]

Instead of having a whole collection of hex wrenches, valve tool, schrader tool, pick, etc. I carry the DGX compact multi-tools (metric and standard). They have a lot of the scuba specific stuff.

I may still get a multi-tool but it would probably be something I might put in my pocket in the water in case a dive buddy needs something tightened on an actual dive. I'd prefer to have individual tools in my kit though.

 

[GiraffeMarineSalvage]

What about for the beards? Mine gets tied for every dive or all hell breaks loose.

Also definitely massive thread drift, but honestly a razor or scissors to cut uppermost portion of mustache so a dive mask has a reliable seal is priceless if a bearded diver was too busy remember that detail...

 

[-JD-]

Something to keep in mind ... Officially NO, NONE, NADA as far as carry on tools go when leaving Cozumel. That includes really basic stuff stuff like an Allen wrench (hex key). They have (had) a cute little display case that showcases all the (otherwise legal) evil contriband they are looking for ...