Tomckayak_at_aol.com wrote: > In a message dated 1/22/99 1:51:29 PM EST, mikedaly_at_interlog.com writes: > > << I usually use a Fastex buckle in the middle of the > webbing. This arrangement is easily removed when not in use. > >> > Not if you are swimming in northwest waters with bare hands and tying to get > back in to your kayak. Cold hands make squessing a Fasttex, to open it, an > ordeal. Under those conditions, I'd be unlikely to undo the webbing - it's holding my first aid kit and doesn't contribute to re-entry. Even if my hands are cold, the Fastex can be released by sliding the thing along the webbing; it's not sewn in completely and I use the ladderlock portion to tighten the webbing. To everything there is a backup (one of my principles of design). In general, I've heard what you say is true - Fastex buckles are difficult to squeeze with cold hands. I've seen on Nimbus Seafarerer kayaks that a loop of webbing with a knob on the end is wrapped around the release part of a Fastex buckle. These are the ones on their straps used to hold the paddle in place behind the cockpit for paddle float re-entries. You pull on the knob, the webbing tightens and the Fastex releases. I've been wondering how effective these are - anyone used them under extreme conditions? Mike *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/paddlewise/ ***************************************************************************Received on Mon Jan 25 1999 - 12:41:32 PST
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