Introduction Which Attachments? Which Buoyancy Compensator? Which Computer/ Dive Timer? Which Compass? Which Contents Gauge? Which Dive Bag? Which Fins? Which Knife? Which Mask? Which Reel? Which Regulator? Which Snorkel? Which Surface Marker Buoy? Which Suit and Options? Which Tanks? Overview - Which Single Cylinders? - Which Pony Cylinders? - Which Twin Sets? - Which Deco/ Stage Tank? - Which Argon System? Which Torch? - Which Back-up Torch? - Which Main Torch? Which Watch? Which Weight System?	Marking Template for EAN50 Marking Template for O2 Modifying AP Valve SMB's Modifying Other Style SMB's What Do I Need to Make My Own B'C'?	Introduction Modified Valve Drill Valve Drill Modified S-Drill S-Drill Switching to Deco Bottle

Which Knife?

The first knife most people buy tends to be a macho-sized machete, more than a knife; it is as if a primeval instinct takes over, the moment you have the chance to buy a sharp bladed object. A dive knife is used as a tool not a weapon, in spite of our dreams of fighting off sharks or giant octopuses, the reality is that they need protecting from us! Things to look for:

	Is it marine-grade stainless steel or titanium alloy?
	Does it have a serrated blade?
	Is it sharp? (Ed: Don't test it on your finger - that's what buddies are for!)
	Will it hold its edge?
	Is the knife held securely in the scabbard?
	Is the scabbard robust? (Two piece glued plastic scabbards have a tendency to fall apart!)
	Can I easily attach it to myself?
	Is it unobtrusive and can it be reached easily with both hands? Knives traditionally mounted on the lower leg are difficult to reach if it "hits the fan", likewise mounting a knife on either arm means that that arm can't reach it.
	Can I put it back in its scabbard easily?
	Will it cut rope and monofilament line alike?
	How will it be carried - could it become accidentally entangled on something? Lanyards can be highly problematic.
	There is an increasing trend in some territorial waters (Including the UK) for line fishermen to use WIRE to weight the line. This is a serious development which traditional dive knives may be ineffective in dealing with leading to serious consequences if a diver were to become entangled. Surgical scissors or garden snips may be of considerable value in such a situation

Options other than knives include line cutters/Z-knives and surgical scissors. Line cutters/Z-knives consist of a handle with a hook on the end containing a scalpel blade; the hook is pulled against fishing line and netting which cuts the line.

Recommendations The best and one of the cheapest knives to buy is a small and unobtrusive Oceanic "Cutter BC" knife, which comes in a small webbing scabbard (they also sell it in a plastic scabbard - you don't want that one), it can be fitted on the left hand side waistband of most harnesses where it may be reached with either hand by sliding it to the middle once fitted Choices for cutting wire easily include EMT shears (cheap) and garden/tin snips from DIY stores. These are usually somewhat cheaper than the alternatives available from dive stores and some garden snips are exactly the same as Mares Snips. They can be carried in a pocket or mounted in a dedicated retainer on the harness.

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	Good/Essential Features.
	Mixed Good/Bad features depending on the circumstances.
	Bad Features.
	Points requiring your consideration depending on your personal circumstances.
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	Tips, Ideas and general information for your attention.
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Diving can be a hazardous sport and the information contained within this site is not intended to replace formal training. Furthermore no responsibility will be accepted for any accidents, injuries or financial disadvantage, howsoever caused.

Copyright © H Beasley 01 August 2001 All Rights Reserved