Stage Rigging

This guide shows step-by-step photos for building a stage kit for stage or deco cylinders used in technical diving. You’ll need:

  • ~72inches of paracord
  • 12in section of Low-Pressure regulator hose OR 5/16 fuel tubing
  • 2 medium-sized bolt snaps
  • Speed clamp with protective tubing

Tools

  • Lighter
  • Scissors
  • Short section of scrap cave line
Stage Rigging
Stage Rigging
Stage Rigging

Create the top loop by passing the clip through the loop and tying a knot through the clip eyelet. Measure the loop length on the cylinder to ensure it site on the crown of the cylinder. Sinch the knot tight.

Stage Kit Rigging
Stage Kit Rigging

Use the cave line like a fish tape to pull a double section of paracord through the fuel line.

Tie a knot tight against the fuel tubing.

Stage Kit Rigging
Stage Kit Rigging

Loop the bottom clip through one strand of the bottom cord. Make it about 1 fish from the bottom of the fuel tubing.

Using the line attached to the clip, tie a knot about one finger width from the knot on the fuel tubing. Then use the free line to tie an opposing knot butted up against the first knot.

Stage Kit Rigging

Cut and burn the tails to create clean mushroom-shaped terminated ends. The mushroom shape prevents the line from being pulled back through. The burning also prevents frayed ends.

Stage Kit Rigging

Slide your newly assembled rigging onto the cylinder. Remember to keep the rigging tight against the cylinder and never use the fuel tubing as a handle as it will loosen the kit, making it less streamlined underwater.