Clips, Straps, Retractors

Bolt snap dog clips — the standard attachment
Stainless steel bolt snap clips are the standard hardware for attaching accessories to a BCD D-ring. The single-end bolt snap is the most common — one end clips to a D-ring, the other end has an opening that accepts a ring, loop, or another clip. A double-end bolt snap (double-ender) has openings at both ends, allowing you to clip between two attachment points without a separate D-ring. For heavy accessories, a larger-opening swivel bolt snap distributes rotational load better than a fixed clip. All clips we carry are 316 stainless steel — marine-grade and corrosion resistant for repeated salt water use. Cheaper, brass versions of these items are not good for scuba diving because brass is softer and wears out quickly and develops razor-sharp edges.

Retractors vs. lanyards — which to use
A retractor uses a spring-loaded reel to extend and automatically retract a steel or nylon cord. Clip your accessory to the end of the cord and it pulls back when released — keeping gauges, lights, and slates close to your body when not in use and extending to reach when you need them. A lanyard is a fixed-length cord with no retraction — it keeps an accessory tethered but does not actively retract it. Retractors suit heavy accessories like gauge consoles that you repeatedly extend and release. Lanyards suit cameras and dive lights that you hold extended for longer periods.

Retractor sizing — micro, mini, and locking
Three retractor sizes cover different needs. The Micro Retractor has a 3-foot nylon cord and 2.5 oz retraction force — suited to lightweight accessories like a slate, compass, or dive light. The Mini Retractor has a 24-inch steel line with higher retraction force — better for medium-weight accessories. The Mini High Force has a 12-inch steel line for very compact, high-tension retraction of gauges. The Locking Retractor provides an auto-lock mechanism that holds the cord extended when needed, then retracts when released — ideal for a dive light or camera that you want held in position.

Bungee cord — versatile and sold by the foot
Bungee cord is one of the most versatile pieces of dive hardware — used for regulator necklaces, forearm computer mounts, wing bladder compression wraps, and fin bungee modifications. We carry both 4mm and 5mm bungee sold by the foot so you can buy exactly the length needed. The 4mm is lighter and suits regulator necklaces and small bungee loops. The 5mm is sturdier and is the right choice for wing bladder compression and heavier-duty forearm mount applications. Cut, loop, and tie with a simple overhand knot — no special tools needed.