Static Line/ Pilotchute Assist (PCA) method

[SEREJumper 1]

Interesting video of a static line jump with what I think is a unique PCA method/ or style of PC for that matter. Looks to be a bigger non collapsible PC similar to what is used on military T-10R MIRPS reserves (58" across, see attached pics).

Looks to work better than spring loaded PC's and has more than enough drag to pull out the Dbag.

Anyone else using a setup like this, any drawbacks vs. spring loaded PC's? Safer?

https://www.dropbox.com/s/heij5a72h6fvlvg/STATIC%20LINE%20JUMP.wmv

We're not fucking flying airplanes are we, no we're flying a glorified kite with no power and it should be flown like one! - Stratostar

[stratostar 5]

I've been using this method for a couple years now, only using a normal sized PC for a student rig. Saves a lot of time for switching between Sl & FF students/renters.

Just use a Velcro pig tail on the PC attachment point of the bridal for the SL hook up. You pack the PC in the container just like a pull out.

You should always make sure the pvc handle is in towards the center and not facing out towards the sidewalls, that way it can't get worked out of the corner of the flaps and get pulled on a DRCP. If the PC is packed correctly, when you go to switch to FF, you remove SL, open flaps, pull out PC, re-close and route bridal and place PC in boc. Reverse order for SL hook up.

This method has a few advantages over a spring loaded PCA or the direct bag method to beat the shit out of your paint job. You don't need any special equipment to do it, or extra large PC's, standard stuff will work fine.

Advantages:

Loop stays the same
no fighting the spring pc & flaps
easier on hands closing
faster switching methods
simple rigging for smart people

Disadvantages:

Won't be able to sit around and watch the noobs cuss and wrestle to close a spring loaded PC.

Won't get to watch noobs break worn loops and get popped in the face with the spring loaded pc.
simple rigging for smart people
Easier for chicks to close = less time in the packing area.

you can't pay for kids schoolin' with love of skydiving! ~ Airtwardo

[riggerrob 643]

I have worked - as a jump-master - with both versions.
Spring-loaded pilot-chutes were a difficult to pack and redundant.
Soft pilot-chutes make more sense.
I only used standard-sized (about 36 inch diameter) soft pilot chutes, but the 50-ish inch diameter you are using makes more sense, considering the heavy canopies and slow airspeeds, the sooner you can pull the canopy to line-stretch, the better.

Also remember that Velcro - especially pile Velcro - wears out rapidly ... sometimes in only 100 jumps, so you should always keep a handful of replacement Velcro strips in the packing shed. Keep three times as many pile Velcro strips as hook Velcro strips.
Encourage packers to replace tired Velcro often.

It also helps if you have a couple of posters nailed to the (inside) wall of the packing shed.
The first poster should illustrate the key steps in packing a static-line container and the second poster should illustrate the key steps in closing a free-fall container.

[tjm 0]

its the bridal shorter? looks like it, but it could be the pc size in comparison that is throwing me off.

If you're not living on the edge; you're taking up too much room!