Serious question, why don't more guys use a ratchet strap to secure their gear bag on deck?

I've been diving for about 8 years now, mostly off the coast of Louisiana. Last week I was getting ready for a 60-foot repair job and my bag kept sliding around on the wet deck every time we hit a swell. I grabbed a ratchet strap from the truck and cinched it down to a cleat. Totally stopped the problem. My tender thought it was overkill, but I didn't have to chase my tools once. Has anyone else tried this trick or do you guys just deal with the sliding?

2 comments

2 Comments

sandrat242d ago

Honestly, I think you're onto something good there. Ratchet straps are way underrated for keeping gear put on a wet deck. Most guys just let their bags slide around and call it part of the job, but that's just asking for busted gear or a trip hazard. Ngl, I've seen way too many guys slip on a loose strap end, but as long as you secure it right, it's way safer than chasing tools. Tbh, your tender probably just never had a bag slide overboard.

rowan7252d ago

Honestly, just goes to show you're never too salty to learn a new trick. I spent a whole season using a frayed bungee cord and a prayer before a guy yelled at me about ratchet straps. Ngl, I felt pretty dumb when I realized how simple it was to just crank everything down tight. Tbh, I'm probably the reason that tender was so careful in the first place, I've sent more than a few coolers over the side myself.