Lost my grip on a tool mid-dive yesterday

I was working on a bridge piling when my wrench slipped from my hand. It sank into the murk before I could grab it. We had to finish the job with spare tools. Now I'm thinking about better ways to secure gear. What do you guys use to keep things from falling?

3 comments

3 Comments

wrenrobinson1d ago

Did you catch that forum post about using old phone cords as tool leashes? Someone said the coiled wire stays out of the way and stretches just enough. It sounded like a weird hack, but it might work for light gear.

rayallen1d ago

Have you tied a float to your wrench so it bobs right back up if dropped?

joelharris1d ago

Parachute cord lanyards are standard, but they tangle like crazy in current. What about using retractable keychain reels? They're cheap, lock in place, and won't wrap around your arm. You can clip them to your belt or harness so when you drop a tool, it just hangs there instead of sinking. I've seen divers modify them with carabiners for quick release. Sure, they might not hold up to heavy abuse, but for wrenches and such, they work fine. It's a dumb simple fix that most people overlook because it's not 'professional gear'.