SCUBA RETRACTOR

An Aqua Lung retractor carries a console, a torch, a camera or a slate on a sprung line that pulls it back against the harness the moment it is released. The alternative is a clip, and a clip means an item is either stowed or in use, with the diver holding it in between.

The retractor removes that middle state. A gauge can be pulled out to arm's length, read, and let go, and it returns to the same place on the harness every time rather than swinging on a lanyard or being tucked back one-handed. Three sizes are offered here. The micro takes a light item on a carabiner. The compact carries a console or a camera on a heavy-duty snap clip or a threaded stud, with 76 cm of travel. The console model has a large heavy-duty snap clip and 46 cm of extension for the heaviest items.

The result is a rig where nothing dangles, nothing drags on the reef, and a gauge returns to the same place every time.

Supplied in black. Match the size to the weight of the item rather than to the length wanted, because an overloaded retractor will not return the item cleanly. Mount it where the line runs straight rather than around a shoulder.