CCR Class Equipment Guide

Below is a list of equipment for use in your CCR training. Please do not shop based on this list alone! This list is generic as a checklist before your course. I suggest buying equipment from your local dive store whenever possible which is why this list doesn’t recommend brands or models. Please contact me with questions regarding purchasing new gear so I can set you up for success. The specific equipment I use is listed on my recommended gear page.

If you purchased you unit new the upgrades/additions I suggest are:

  • Pull dump
  • Dive Rite Choptima spares kit
  • Counterlung caps for cleaning

If you’re purchasing a used unit please ensure:

  • Unit is in current service (annual) or will be before class
  • Cells are in date
  • Calibration caps are included
  • Two masks, ideally low profile
  • Stiff  “tech style” fins
    • Dive Rite, Deep6, scubapro jets, etc.
  • Exposure protection adequate for 60+min dives in the water temperature we’re diving in.
  • Hoods are preferred.
  • If you’re using a drysuit you must have extensive experience using it.
  • Any dives on shipwrecks require gloves.
  • Suit must have at least one attached pocket or techpants.
  • We will be using your core platform (single, doubles, sidemount) with
    • Additional LPI hose or QC6 hose
    • 2xUpper drings – suggest small fixed d-rings
    • 2xWaist d-rings – suggest Dive Rite sliding d-rings
  • Your existing core platform must have:
    • 2x second stages
    • SPG or transmitter
    • BCD with power inflator
    • Wing appropriate for configuration – no singles wings on doubles setups
  • Decompression cylinder(s) for Air Dil Deco/helitrox
    • Oxygen clean regulator.
    • Button gauges are appropriate for deco cylinders.
    • Suggest using standard style rigging for deco cylinders.

Decompression cylinder with standard rigging and markings.

  • Cutting device
  • Dive computer with CCR mode
  • Wrist slate (elastic attachment) AND/OR Wet notes
  • Lights are recommended for deep dives.
  • Oxygen analyzer kit – 2 per team during classes
    • I will provide 1 analyzer for class
    • Every CCR diver should own an analyzer – at least an oxygen analyzer. As long at at least 1 diver on the team brings one and I bring one then we’re covered for the class but I encourage everyone to own an analyzer

Examples of common accessories for CCR dives.

  • Surface marker buoy with reel or spool.
    • Reel or spool needs enough line to blow a lift bag from depth.
  • Backup surface marking device and line.
  • Strobes are optional but encouraged for wreck diving.

Examples of signaling devices for deco diving.

  • Calibration kit (included with new units)
  • Manufacturer recommended lubricant – trilube 71 (included with new units)
  • Microfiber towels and/or sham-towel for cleaning and drying
  • Coleman air mattress pump
  • Box for unit storage
  • Manufacturer’s predive checklist
  • Manufacturer’s build checklist
  • Extra double ender boltsnap
  • Proper clips and storage for all accessory equipment on you body – thigh pockets or “tech shorts”.
    • You want the least amount of things clipped outside your pockets.
    • Christmas tree (pocket dump) approach is the best method for pocket use.
    • I highly encourage thigh pockets and strongly discourage buttpouches.
  • Proper storage for all equipment (bag, crate, etc) that can be easily stowed on the vessel.

A thigh pocket with bungee or paracord reduces the chance of losing accessories and allows for a quick pocket dump.

Be sure to label your gear – tech divers tend to have a lot of the same stuff. Some examples of labeling:

  1. At a minimum, have all gear initialed. 
  2. Electrical tape is a great way to mark your clips.
  3. Diving Labels (https://www.divinglabels.com/) are great because they’re reflective.

Often overlooked – the most important piece of gear is you and your body.

  • Show up rested, hydrated and clear headed.
  • Bring a water bottle.
  • Dive site comfort items (be prepared for sun, heat, rain and always have a snack!).
    • Drybag
    • Hat/reef-safe sunscreen/sunshirt
    • Motion sickness medication

Save a dive kit

Every diver should have backups but boat diving doesn’t allow for an entire toolbox of gear. At a minimum:

  • Batteries for backup lights, computer, etc
  • DIN o-rings
  • Wrenches and allen keys
  • Tape and sharpies for labeling.
  • Zipties
  • Mouthpieces
  • Extra boltsnaps and double enders

Things to Avoid

CCR diving is a niche activity. There are items which are not appropriate for this environment.

  • Split fins
  • Snorkels
  • Retractors
  • Tank bangers/noise makers
  • Integrated inflators/alternate air source
  • Cave cookies/arrows – not necessary in the ocean.