Straps & Grips

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a Goodman handle and a pistol grip for dive lights?

A Goodman handle or glove mounts the dive light on the back of your hand. A Goodman handle is usually made of stainless steel or aluminum and allows you to grip the handle with a closed fist. The Goodman glove is similar but is made of soft neoprene or other material, but works in the same way as the Goodman handle. The light head faces forward in the direction you are looking, leaving your fingers free for buoyancy control, slate writing, and equipment handling. It is the preferred mounting for technical, cave, and night divers who use a primary light throughout the entire dive. A pistol grip is a separate handle with a trigger-style finger grip — you hold the light in your fist pointed in whichever direction you aim your hand. A pistol grip gives more directional control for pointing the light precisely, but occupies one hand throughout the dive. For extended use, the Goodman handle is more comfortable and leaves both hands available. For shorter use or in situations where precise aiming matters — such as macro photography or looking into specific crevices — a pistol grip provides more control.

How do I attach a dive light to my BCD for a backup light?

The most common method is a bolt snap or double-ender that is attached to the light's lanyard loop, clipped to a D-ring on the BCD chest area within easy reach of either hand. A short coil lanyard between the bolt snap and the light head allows the backup to extend away from the body when in use and retract when released. Some backup lights include an integrated clip or sleeve that slides directly over a BCD strap or D-ring without a separate lanyard. Whichever method you use, test the clip-in and clip-out motion in the pool before relying on the placement in open water — the backup light needs to be immediately accessible without searching or looking for it.