Questions and Answers

Why is the Bodaine Mini Reel suited to DSMB deployment?

Because the winding handle is so small, there is virtually no power when recovering line, why is this?

Why is there no provision for a lanyard on these reels?

Are these reels robust enough to withstand the rough usage which most diving accessories receive?

What materials are used in their construction?

What is the breaking strain of the line supplied on the reel?

Do these reels float?

Are spare parts available?

Why is the Bodaine Mini Reel suited to DSMB deployment?

Most SMB reels have drums which revolve on axles anchored at one end only and the ratchet mechanisms can only be disengaged by the constant pressure of the operators thumb. The drum speeds attained when DSMB's are launched from depth can be very high and lead to excessive vibration and wear which, at best, is uncomfortable for the operator and if the operators thumb slips off the ratchet release, serious damage may be caused to the mechanism (and probably the operator!!)

The Bodaine Mini Reel employs a carefully designed high speed spool which is mounted on a metal shaft which runs its entire length. Both ends of the axle shaft are supported where it passes through the frame. The winding crank is counterbalanced and provides excellent damping during high speed line-out to minimise the risk of over-running when the buoy breaks surface. The "closed" spool and metal line guides also reduce the likelihood of line tangles.

Operator error during launch is obviated by engagement of the pawl lock which prevents unintentional engagement of the ratchet mechanism.

Top of page

Because the winding handle is so small, there is virtually no power when recovering line, why is this?

The designers consider that only reasonably experienced divers will be deploying SMB's. This presupposes that this class of user will have mastered the art of maintaining neutral buoyancy and will have no need to "winch" themselves to the surface!

Top of page

Why is there no provision for a lanyard on these reels?

It is potentially very dangerous to lanyard a reel to one's wrist, particularly during buoy deployment. The design of the finger loop of the frame enables the reels to be clipped to most karabiners for attachment/carrying purposes.

Top of page

Are these reels robust enough to withstand the rough usage which most diving accessories receive?

The diminutive dimensions of the Bodaine Mini Reel belie its incredible robustness. The designers are experienced divers and have developed a product which will endure the mistreatment so often associated with diving- especially from small boats where cylinders and weight belts can inflict great damage to items of kit!

Top of page

What materials are used in their construction?

No compromise has been made in the selection of the very best material used in the construction of these reels. Engineering grade virgin ABS and Nylon 6 are used for the moulded components whilst the metal parts are formed from stainless steel type A4 (316 S16) and brass to BS2874/CZ121M.

Top of page

What is the breaking strain of the line supplied on the reel?

The nominal breaking strain of the braided nylon line on our reels is 50 Kgs. The reels come ready loaded with approximately 50 metres of this line.

Top of page

Do these reels float?

No, they are designed to be negatively buoyant.

Top of page

Are spare parts available?

Yes- in the unlikely event that you should need spares, these are available direct from BODAINE DEVELOPMENTS or your distributor.

Top of page