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Lights, Knives, Lift Bags, Accessories

Which dive light is the right one? Choosing a dive light is not easy, and the dozens of products available make it even harder. Normally, dive lights are used for night diving but can be taken down during the day, too.

Lights

Here are some things to consider when selecting a dive light to meet your needs:

• Burn Time - Choose a light that has the ability to last at least two times as long as the expected down time of your planned dive.
• Rechargeable vs. Disposable Batteries - Rechargeable batteries are more expensive, but over the course of time they pay for themselves, since you do not need to buy more. Disposable's are cheaper, but once they run out, you have to buy more.
• Bulbs - The intensity of your light depends on your battery power and the type of bulb you use. Some efficient bulbs include argon, krypton, and xenon. Halogen gas further improves performance.
• Beam Width - Some divers prefer a wider beam width for a primary light. It illuminates a broader area. Secondary lights can be narrower and they are good for shining into cracks and crevices. A good light to choose is one that has an adjustable beam.
• Configuration - Dive lights come in a number of shapes and sizes to fit your taste. Take into consideration the grip, switch and safety lanyard. They come in different colors and some are small enough to put in your pocket or clip to a D-ring. There is even a head mounted light available.
• Depth Rating - Try to choose one that has a depth rating greater than your maximum depth dive. Certain devices such as double o-rings and magnetic switches help make the light more reliable under pressure.

Knives

Dive knives are offered in a variety of materials, sizes and shapes, and when purchasing one it is important to remember that dive knives are tools, not weapons. Below are a few tips that will help you make an informed decision on what kind of dive knife will best suit your needs as a diver.

• Size - Although many people think "the larger the knife the better," large dive knives can be awkward and can easily cut you or puncture you BC. You should buy a knife that will be useful to you as a diver- not an underwater warrior.
• Shape - Straight edges cut plastic better- this includes mono filament fishing line and nylon rope- while serrated edges are more efficient at cutting natural fiber rope and kelp. With a serrated knife, serrations should run almost the entire length of the blade, making it possible to use a good sawing motion. Many dive knives on have both straight and serrated edges, making them great in a variety of situations.
• Material - Most dive knives are made steel, either 300 or 400-series stainless steel alloys. All "Stain-less" Steel knives will show some signs of rust due to their high carbon content (carbon creates tensile strength). Because stainless steel knives are not completely rustproof, they will require maintenance. After each use, rinse well with fresh water and dry outside of its sheath. Coat with a light layer of oil or silicone.

Safety

A variety of equipment is available to increase your safety and create self-reliance while diving. Reels can be used to create directional lines or to deploy lift bags. Safety sausages, mirrors, whistles and other signalling devices can be used to signal for attention. Lift bags can be used to recover heavy objects.

Accessories

Clips, attachments, straps, hangers, slates, keepers, boxes and many other items are available to complement your diving.

Owning dive equipment represents a long term investment in fun and safety. A good set of dive gear can last you through years of diving and travel, take you to unforgettable experiences in incredible underwater environments and most importantly, bring you home safely. It is important to buy the right gear for the type of diving you do, ensure that it fits and is comfortable, be trained in its use and keep it serviced at recommended intervals. Ocean Pro Divers is committed to working with you at every step of this process. We carry all types of gear from many major manufacturers to get you diving.