How to Secure a Bolt Snap onto Dive Gear
Posted by Dive Professional: Will Taylor on on Mar 26th 2023
What you will need:
2ft of Cave Line (nylon)
Bolt Snap
Item Being Attached
Shears
Lighter
1. Choose the correct size of the bolt snap for your equipment. Bolt snaps come in different sizes, so make sure to select one that will fit your gear.
Ensure that your dive gear is dry and free from sand or debris. Clean any surfaces where the bolt snap will be attached.
2. Start by wrapping the nylon line around the hose and passing it through the eye of the bolt snap three times as demonstrated below.
Next, you should adjust the line to achieve the desired distance between the bolt snap and the object by tightening it.
After that, create an overhand knot and position it against the bolt snap. Tighten the knot firmly to secure it, then thread the two ends of the line back between the bolt snap and the hose.
Flip the entire setup so that the opposite side is facing you. Make an overhand knot and tighten it enough to bring together the lines connecting the bolt snap and the hose. Next, tie another overhand knot in the opposite direction of the first one to form a square knot. Pull the knot firmly to ensure it is secure.
To finish the knot, cut off each end of the line while leaving about 0.25 inches free. Use a lighter to burn the excess line and flatten or mushroom the top of the burned ends, which will help prevent the line from slipping through the knot. Alternatively, you could apply a drop of super glue directly to the knot to ensure its security.
Once the knot is finished, it's important to inspect and test it. Twist and pull on it to check for any signs of weakness. Since you don't want bolt snaps to detach from crucial equipment, if the knot appears uncertain, it's best to cut it and begin again.
Now attach the bolt snap to the equipment. There are a few different attachment points on dive gear where bolt snaps can be attached, including D-rings, lifting handles, or accessory loops. Insert the bolt snap through the attachment point.
Test the bolt snap once more by pulling on it with moderate force. Ensure that it doesn't come loose or slip off the attachment point.
Rinse your dive gear with fresh water after use, and inspect the bolt snap for signs of wear or damage before each dive.
By following these steps, you should be able to attach a bolt snap to your scuba dive equipment properly and securely. Remember to always inspect your gear before and after each dive, and to replace any worn or damaged equipment as necessary.