| OK, this is going to be a fairly hefty post, but I'll tell you how I do it, in as much detail as I can be bothered with:
Take out rella nd SMB. Attatch (if reel isn't already) the two together. Ensure SMB is unfurled, and add a little bit of air (from mouth, reg, blowgun*) to get it upright and out of the way. Now, there will only be a bit of air in there, so no major force upwards. Now make sure thumb is on ratchet and add some more air depending on depth. If you're miles down, just put in a bit to get it on its way. If you're at 6m, you're going to need to fire in a fair bit to get it full at the surface. Once air is in, press ratchet button, out goes line. Once line stops, SMB is either at the surface, or you've hit (the roof, the wreck, your buddy*) so you can let go of ratchet.
Begin your ascent, keeping line reasonably taut, but without pulling the thing down to meet you. Slight downward pressure will keep the SMB upright, but you should be able to let go of it at any time and hold your position (ie stay neutrally buoyant).
Whoever said if you can't explain it in one line you won't be able to do it underwater? That just took half a page and I do it all the time!!!
Hope this helps.
Digs.  |