Harness Break

[Bimbler]

Just a quick question - as I have finally got around to making my harness and don't need to be distracted for too long! If I want to put a shoulder break in my harness, is it best to put it on the left or right side and should it go above or below the d-ring? Thanks.

[Finless]

Depends where your D ring is?

I would think you need to make sure that when you are wearing the harness that the clip isn't positioned where it is going to be under undue stress (in a flat location) in a place where you can easily undo it.

The first time I tried with mine it ended up on my shoulder when I stood up! Most uncomfortable and tricky to undo!

My advice is "to play with it" until it is in the right place.

[JJ44]

I didn't put a break in the webbing, just a pinch clip (or whatever they're called) below the D-ring with couple of inches of slack webbing between both parts.

I found that gave me enough slack when undone to get out of the harness really easily and for others to get me out of my harness on a recent sport diver rescue dive.

HTH

Jeff

[The Penguin]

Mine's on the left, just below the shoulder D-ring on that side. D-rings positioned according to Hogartian principles first, then cut the webbing below it on whichever side you plump for (leave a good amount, once you get the break positioned trim off the excess). I think most with a single break put it on the left, but really whichever is easiest to reach. I honestly can't remember why i choose left, but in a vague way it seems to make sense! It's easier to unclip it with the opposite hand (in my case right, though i'm left-handed), so bear that in mind. To do it with the same hand is possible but not as easy. Also i carry my back-up torch on the right strap, can't really position a break there.



HTH, Al

[Finless]

Originally Posted by JJ44

I didn't put a break in the webbing, just a pinch clip (or whatever they're called) below the D-ring with couple of inches of slack webbing between both parts.

I found that gave me enough slack when undone to get out of the harness really easily and for others to get me out of my harness on a recent sport diver rescue dive.

HTH

Jeff

Yep, I know what you mean. I ended up buying the OMS Harness as I couldn't get on with the one piece harness set up, even with the 'loop break' I found it a real PITA.

You already have a specific reply with piccies so I'll just wish you good luck and hope you don't have to mess around with it too much.

[Bimbler]

Originally Posted by JJ44

I didn't put a break in the webbing, just a pinch clip (or whatever they're called) below the D-ring with couple of inches of slack webbing between both parts.

Yeah, that's what I think I'm gonna do. I just thought calling it a 'break' would make it easier to explain.

At the moment my D-ring is above it, about collar bone level, but I am finding the buckle for the 'break' is a bit cumbersome and currently digs into my arm a bit. I think playing around with it is the best solution.

I was more just perplexed about which side to put it on. I was having a mental blank as to which side it was on on kit I've borrowed before! I think putting it on the left because I am right handed seems the most sensible, unless I'm missing something obvious (as usual)!

[Bimbler]

Oh... thanks for your replies by the way

I'm off for a second attempt. No doubt I'll be back with another question shortly!

[Woz]

Left side, under the armpit. So you can keep your reg in your mouth while you swing your set off for someone to lift up into the RIB.

[ardhill]

Originally Posted by al kennedy

Mine's on the left, just below the shoulder D-ring on that side. D-rings positioned according to Hogartian principles

That is where mine is now.

Originally Posted by Woz

Left side, under the armpit.

That is where mine used to be.

I found it easier to get to the clip after a dive whilst still in the water, when it was positioned on my chest as opposed to under my arm.

Originally Posted by Woz

So you can keep your reg in your mouth while you swing your set off for someone to lift up into the RIB.

Yeap, that's why left - back to basic training for those who forgot, but you all probably do it automatically.

The standard "Pinch Clips" are easier to undo, but according to Woz, the funny 'Buddy' clips are stronger. They certainly seem stronger to me, and you are less likely to accidentally unclip it when you grab the harness.

Mine is also a clean break, not a loose loop or anything.

[Bimbler]

Originally Posted by Woz

So you can keep your reg in your mouth while you swing your set off for someone to lift up into the RIB.

Cheers - I knew there was a more sensible answer! That seems quite obvious now

Harness is now successfully completed and clip seems comfortable where it is (nearer chest then armpit) - of course this is all done from the safety of the kitchen, stood in my dry suit. The real test is yet to come!