Questions for guys around 230 lbs.

[toolbox 0]

My first rig was a vector 2 with a raven 218 reserve and a 265 falcon main.
I was 260lb naked (I was a competetive body builder back then) and 5'11''.
My exit weight was 290lb and I had 15 skydives when I got my rig.

[heavydude 0]

Man its nice to know I have some brothers out there after happening on this thread, Im about 245 w/o gear and didnt skydive for years because I thought I was over the limit. Started jumping last July, finished Aff and have about 30 jumps. Did similar stuff mentioned in thread, I ordered a Crater suit because I get the fealing everybody I jump w/ puts on lead. I used to lift weights excessively, still have a 52 inch chest, 38 waist... trying to shrink. I busted my PD-300 yesterday w/ hard opening last jump of the day, split the center crossport on ctr rib. Could have been laszy packing but I have been real careful. Any other heay guys had problems breaking gear ? Dont know how fast I fall but I just bought a protrack ! Last jump was w/ freefly suit, so its not that baggy...crater suit is on its way.

[riggerrob 643]

Yes, the chart says that PR253 is limited to 254 pounds (exit weight) while PR281 is limited to 300 pounds.
Part of that difference can be attributed to different standards when they were certified.
When (July 1989) PR253 was certified, TSO C23C was in effect and allowed a maximum placard weight of 254 pounds.
A few years later (1992), the FAA took pity on Anvil Brothers and allowed manufacturers the option of testing and placarding parachutes (under TSO C23D) to heavier weights and faster air speeds, ergo the 300 placard limit on PR281. Remember that TWO C23D keeps the same minimums as TSO C23C.

More trivia, the old TSO C23B (based on NAS 804, introduced in 1949), Standard Category set 254 pounds and 150 knots as the minimum placarded limits, but never set upper limits. That is why some of the older manufacturers (Vector and Racer) were allowed to build tandems and Anvil Brother rigs for considerably heavier weights. Holders of older versions of TSOs are "grandfathered" ... still allowed to build rigs - under the old TSO - as long as they keep the quality up and fatality rate low.

[bullin82 0]

Im just glad im not the only heavy drop around makes me feel ALOT better

[JerryBaumchen 1,362]

Hi Rob,

Quote

More trivia, the old TSO C23B (based on NAS 804, introduced in 1949), Standard Category set 254 pounds and 150 knots as the minimum placarded limits, but never set upper limits.

Sorry but no cigar for you) TSO C23b has two categories; Low Speed & Standard ( not High Speed ). The Low Speed category requires that the pack & the canopy be placarded something to the effect: 'Low Speed Parachute' ( in red letters one inch high ) and then 'Limited to Use in Airplane Under 150 MPH' ( in red letters 1/2" high ). The Standard category only requires the 'normal' marking such as Mfr, Weight ( of the component ), Type, Serial #, DOM, + TSO C23b/NAS 804.

Any 'minimum' would come from the weight/speed charts in the Strength Test section, but this is not req'd to be placarded on the component.

Hope this helps inform people,

JerryBaumchen