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Having the right dive equipment can make a big difference to your scuba diving experience. Here are some of our best tips, tricks and strategies about getting the most out of your dive accessories — from diving knives to lights.
Now That’s a Knife
Unless you are an underwater hunter — or play a scuba diving villain in a James Bond movie — dive knives are not weapons for stabbing, they are tools made for prying, tank banging, and sawing or slicing through entangling fishing lines or ropes. Choose your blade accordingly.
Steel Yourself?
Stainless steel or titanium — which makes for a better dive knife blade? Stainless tends to be more cost effective — just make sure you choose a premium grade – and typically holds an edge longer, while titanium is virtually corrosion free, and new alloys are far less brittle. Some manufacturers meet in the middle by adding a titanium coating to a steel blade.
The Light Choice
Diving lights not only brighten the reef, they can also be used as an underwater signaling device. A narrow, focused beam penetrates in murky water and is ideal for investigating dark nooks and crannies, while a wider beam may provide a greater sense of well being for those not fully comfortable with scuba diving in the dark. Consider getting a strobe — clip it to your BC so it's handy if you need it. Make sure it's water activated and capable of delivering about 200 hours of signal blinks.
Squared Away
Light sources decrease with distance according to the inverse square law, which in layman’s terms means a diving light that is twice as bright won’t necessarily penetrate twice as far down the reef. That said, brighter is usually better, though beam shape, color temperature and consistency can be as important as total output.
Always Carry a Spare
A spare mouthpiece might not only save a dive should you discover your reg's mouthpiece is cracked or split, you may discover you prefer how it feels in your mouth as they are often made to be extra comfortable. Other dive-saving extras that are good to have: fin and mask straps.
Multitasking
A multitool purpose-made for divers is a versatile tool to have in your gear bag. They usually come with stainless-steel hex wrenches, a Schrader valve tool, an O-ring pick and more, all folded into a compact body.
Hang It Up
BC and wetsuit hangers often have rotating hooks so they can be used virtually anywhere. Your BC and suit will dry faster and you'll be extending their life.
For 31 of the latest scuba diving accessories on the market today, view our Accessories Gear Guide.
