SeaLife Gear Retractor: Prevent Loss Underwater

Quick answer

Use the SeaLife Gear Retractor to tether your compact camera or light to your BCD, preventing accidental loss during a dive.

How to attach and use the SeaLife Gear Retractor

1. Attach the quick-release clip to your camera or light: Press the clip's button to open it, then slide the D-ring or mounting hole of your device onto the clip. Release the button to lock. Common mistake: attaching to a strap or lanyard instead of a hard point can cause the retractor to pull free.
2. Secure the retractor body to your BCD or harness: Use the built-in carabiner to clip the retractor to a D-ring on your BCD shoulder strap or waist belt. Ensure the carabiner is fully closed and not twisted. Checkpoint: the retractor should hang freely without rubbing against your neck or tank valve.
3. Test the retraction before entering the water: Pull the cord out to its full 32-inch extension and let it retract fully. Listen for any hesitation—if it sticks, rinse the mechanism with fresh water. A sticky retractor usually means debris inside; the self-flushing design helps but a freshwater rinse before the dive is best.
4. Use the retractor during the dive: When not shooting, let the retractor pull your camera or light close to your body. To hand off gear to a buddy, extend the cord and pass the device—the retractor will stay attached. Never wrap the cord around your hand or wrist; it can become a entanglement hazard.
5. Rinse and dry after every dive: Soak the retractor in fresh water for a few minutes, then operate the retraction several times to flush out salt and grit. Hang to dry in the shade. Skipping this step can lead to corrosion of the internal spring, reducing retraction force over time.

Product facts

• SeaLife Gear Retractor: The retractor extends 32 inches (81 cm) with a 9 oz (255 g) retraction force and has a 60 lb (27.2 kg) breaking strength cord. Enough reach to hand off gear underwater, yet strong enough to hold a camera or light securely against current.