I was just wandering if anyone on this board builds any of their own dive gear. I've built a canister light and I just finished some Jet Fin spring straps. Does anyone else have any ideas and completed projects?

Other than the challenge and fun of trying to build your own stuff, most everything a diver would need is being commercially manufactured. One big advantage is the manufacturer's warranty. Also, in the long run it will probably be cheaper to buy new than to build.

Not to mention, probably safer

Cheaper to buy new than build? What are you talking about. My light would have cost over $400.00 to buy new? I have just over $60.00 in it and I have had it to 110ft with no problems. And I have logged over 20 dives with it. My spring straps would have cost well over $40.00 and I have just over $15.00 in those. Again several dives with no problems. As far as being safer to buy, I have as much confidence in the stuff I build as the stuff you can buy. It's not like I'm building my own regulator.

[ 07-09-2003, 07:02 AM: Message edited by: pcscuba ]

here is a little piece of info
when scuba was just starting, the gear was built from buying parts from Popular Mechanics. the tanks were made from old fire extinguishers.
i have seen B.C.D.s made from inner tubes
i have football shoulder pads for harness
i have seen people with every thing hung from weight belt only, because of back problems
it's what works for you and what you are comfortable with
see you under the surface
bottomrunner

I recently constructed my own backplate and harness system and have enjoyed several dives using it. My dive buddy tried it out and was impressed enough to have me make him one as well. I have thought about making my own canister light but as of yet have not moved in that direction. Mabey if pcscuba would share a little inside information I could be influenced to do so.

Tanker, It was actually pretty easy once I found all the parts. I've had my light down to 110' without any problems. Just remember Mcmaster-Carr is the best place to find just about everything. I actually got the idea from another discussion board. I used a 4-1/2" I.D. acrylic tube, 12v 7amp SLA battery and a C-cell Maglite for the head. Here is a link that shows a light a lot like the one I built http://groups.msn.com/Divelight/divelight.msnw?Page=1

If you think you are still interested and want more details let me know.

Tanker, I would also be interested in that backplate you made. What did you use Stainless,Aluminum? Also where did you get the plans?

The average diver usually does not have the tools and access to the equipment or the technical ability to build their own equipment. If you are able to do it, building your own is a alot of fun. Sounds like a project from Popular Mechnics.

The only tools I used were a Dremel, table saw, wire plier and I had a friend who had a small lathe to mill out the lid for me. Building this light is not rocket science. All you need is a little thought and the ability to ask questions of people who have already built one.