What is the problem with plastic buckles?

[100days-a-year]

Proud owner of three broken Fastex type connectors in each case one of the teeth broke after several years of robust use.On was on crotch strap 1 1/2 in.1 was 2 in on a BC.1 was 1 1/2 in on kayak i occasionally dive from.Wifes recreational rig is full of them.My B/P is all SS for reasons UP so simply stated.

 

[seylerdl]

On several posts, I have seen discussion from people who have had broken fastex plastic buckles, or have had buckles come undone. When (if) I ever get my ACB pockets from Halcyon, I will be a little paranoid about the small (~1") retainer buckles that hold the weights in the pockets. Don't want one to come loose and find 1/2 of my weight falling out! It seems that no one (?) has come up with an elegant solution to this potential problem. In another post I started, FredT mentioned old-style D-ring/strap closures as an alternative. It seems that these would be difficult to undo in an emergency. Seems like we have an opportunity for someone to come up with a stronger, more positively-locking, but still easy to release buckle, perhaps made of SS or other material. I have searched the internet a little, for SS buckles, but have not found exactly what I think we need. If anyone else knows of something, please let us know. On the other hand, I read a reply from Uncle Pug, who, I believe, agreed that the small ACB buckles would only be a problem if they became broken due to damage resulting from, e.g., improper equipment stowage on the dive boat. What do the other DIR divers say about this issue???

Thanks,
Dave

 

[large_diver]

I had a pair of ankle weights with fastex buckles -- one has a broken buckle (one of the "teeth" broke after about 10 dives).....but the buckle still stays together.

The other weight disppeared on a night dive......probably same cause....different result.