BASE rigs with reserves?

[scm007]

Is anybody using base rigs with reserves? If so what are the disadvantages compared to a single chute system?

Also what about experimental type backup systems? I.e. what about a small chest worn backup and the normal backpack style?

Any information you have regarding this would be great.

[lifewithoutanet]

Rather than answering it, I'd like to redirect this question back at you...

Would a reserve of any type be appropriate in BASE? And if so, what factors would make it appropriate and why?

-C.

[Para_Frog]

No.

I can't think of a single incident on the list that can be attributed to a canopy failure on a modern system. Note the keyword there. (I could be wrong - but nothing comes to me)

Rigging error/brain lock, you bet your ass, but in this environment a reserve would be worthless to affect the outcome of such an incident.

The added complexity of having a second parachute would be more of a hinderance than paying attention to the way you route the friggin bridle. A reserve would only be a mental crutch - and if you need that, go skyjumpin...you're in the wrong sport.

My $.02

[lifewithoutanet]

I know you know, Harvey. I was trying to get the new guys to think about it for themselves.
-C.

[Para_Frog]

Didn't see that this was the newbie board. My Bad.

Blow me.

[base1238]

#31 Xaver Bongard - Apr 15, 1994
Object: Earth
Location: SWITZERLAND, , Staubbach - LB
COD: Strike(Canopy)
Description:
Xaver cutaway a spinning main canopy malfunction using a two canopy BASE container (Sorcerer). The reserve opened with line twists that did not clear prior to impact. Xaver is well known, even legendary, in the climbing community for his big wall solo accents.

[lifewithoutanet]

Man... I'd forgotten that was Xaver Bongard. Good catch.

SCM007: I'm not busting your balls...really looking to see your personal assessment of when/how/why/if a reserve would be appropriate. Can you speculate/theorize on the incident above as an example either for or against?

-C.

[vid666]

I don't know the details on Xaver's accident, but :

spinning canopies are usually caused by lineovers. Going in context of Harvey's post, WLO toggles (modern gear) would have been more effective than a cutaway system. Or a hook knife to the steering line. - Why do I think that ? because of the minimal altitude and heading loss.

Also, to speculate in 94 he was more than likely using a modded Raven for a main and only god knows what for the reserve. So a MODERN BASE canopy very well may have made a difference between a 180 harness twist and what has happened.

of course all this is speculation, and in no way meant to make it look like I am agreeing with Harvey.

[huckleberry]

Originally Posted by scm007

Is anybody using base rigs with reserves? If so what are the disadvantages compared to a single chute system?

Also what about experimental type backup systems? I.e. what about a small chest worn backup and the normal backpack style?

Any information you have regarding this would be great.

my reserve is my cutaway toggles, hook knife, helmet, knee pads....and super ninja skills!

[Para_Frog]

I can just feel the love. Sniff sniff.