Weight Pockets

[stever2002]

Please pardon, what could really be considered a really naive question. The new BC's all have pocket systems where you place the weights into pockets that can be quickly pulled and dumped. I get that. But, when you first purchase one of these, do they come with 2 sets of pockets? If not, is it custom practice to buy a spare set? It seems to me that if you had to dump your weights, and you were away at a remote location, then you would have to resort to renting a conventional weight belt. Am I missing something?

Thanks,
-PH

 

[noj3333]

Dumping weights is rather rare, and the pockets usually just have a quick release system that allows for the lead to drop out. With some systems you would 'loose' a pouch that holds the weights in your BCD, but that lost pouch is used for for convenience then anything.

 

[Schwob]

Dumping weights is rather rare, and the pockets usually just have a quick release system that allows for the lead to drop out. With some systems you would 'loose' a pouch that holds the weights in your BCD, but that lost pouch is used for for convenience then anything.

I seem to be misunderstanding something:
How does a weight pocket look like that just drops the weight when pulled out and does not require dropping the whole pocket (at a price point higher than that of the weights) ... or fiddling with the velcro to get the weight out?

Purists please refrain from flaming me by suggesting someone might choose to loose valuable time in an emergency to save a buck... While some people (at times I worry if I am one of them) can't help it, I am just trying to understand these pockets noj3333 referred to...

 

[merxlin]

You are correct. Most BC pockets if you drop them will have to be recovered or replaced. Just think though that if you are dropping your weights its is probably an emergency situation and the cost of a pocket versus being alive is a no brainer. You can reorder pockets as needed.....life not so much.

 

[stever2002]

I totally understand that the cost of my life is greater then the removable pocket filled with lead. A quick google shows replacements are $25-$40 each ($50-$80/pair). It still seems to me that if I had to dump weights on the first dive of a dive vacation, I should have another set packed in my bags. Otherwise I'm going to be renting a belt, or waiting topside 'till Fedex arrives.

Has anyone purchased a spare set of pockets, or am I over thinking this?

-PH

 

[boulderjohn]

Has anyone purchased a spare set of pockets, or am I over thinking this?

The need to drop weights is extremely rare. I have never been near anyone who has ever had to do it. I don't know anyone who has ever mentioning having to do it. Play the odds. If it happens to you, wear the weight belt on the next dive and order a new pocket when you get the chance.

Now, on one dive trip in Cozumel years ago, I did come upon two different weight pockets on the bottom on two consecutive days. Both were an old style secured by velcro that is not made any more, and both had too much weight in them. I am sure they were lost accidentally. Don't use pockets like that.

As for an earlier question, Zeagle BCDs and some others work by having the bottom of the pocket open and drop the weight. The pocket itself is permanently attached.

 

[mi000ke]

Some weight pockets (e.g., Zeagle) have a zippered top which you unzip to add the weight and then zip back up. The bottom of the pocket is a flap that is held closed by a velcro strap. If you need to drop the weight you just pull the velcro strap open and the weight falls out. pocket does not go anywhere. Bottom can be closed up again for your next dive.

I also have trim weight pockets on my bcd straps that have a velcro enclosure. If I need to drop those I would just open them up and take the weight out.

 

[cipherbreak]

I think if you are ever in a situation where you have to drop your lead, you probably will want to take a couple off days off diving anyways.

 

[stever2002]

All great points! Thanks Guys!

 

[BRT]

We carry spares. Check Ebay or just order some.