Date: Fri, 20 Nov 1998 14:55:24 -0600
From: Patrick Maun 
Subject: RE: [Paddlewise] camera storage

Hey all!

All this talk of camera storage reminds me of something I have been meaning
to ask. I use a GPS occasionally that I keep in an AquaPac drybag. I'd like
to rig something up to mount it on my neoprene sprayskirt. I decided that
I'd like to do this after a few nighttime crossings in rough weather. In
these types of conditions the GPS was difficult to read on the deck, and
was also difficult to remove from under deck bungies to take a closer
reading. Not to mention that it disrupted my stroke. I'm thinking of some
quick-release system that would keep the GPS taunt on skirt so it wouldn't
interfere with rolling, surf, attacking river otters, but could also be
removed quickly and stowed so it wouldn't interfere with a paddlefloat
re-entry.

What I do now is have the GPS attached to the deck bungies with a lanyard
and small carabinier and just lay it on my skirt when I am using it at
night. I really hate the idea of have anything loose on the boat in case of
a capsize though.

Anyone have any ideas? How does one go about sewing a sealing a sprayskirt?

Thanks!

Patrick Maun



Date: Fri, 20 Nov 1998 15:38:32 -0600
From: (Chuck Holst)
Subject: [Paddlewise] camera storage

What I would do is glue a couple of Neoprene pockets or straps to
the sprayskirt using AquaSeal -- no sewing required. I once made a
combination Neoprene and nylon sprayskirt using AquaSeal, and never
had a problem with the seams coming apart. Thrifty Outfitters used
to carry wetsuit Neoprene. If they don't have it, then I think you
might be able to order it from Seattle Fabrics
(http://www.seattle2000.com/seattlefabrics/).

Remember, though, what happened to Bill Newman when he tried to read
his compass in waves at night.

Chuck Holst  



Date: Sat, 21 Nov 1998 01:52:09 EST
From: Johnlebl
Subject: Re:[Paddlewise] GPS attachment for night paddling

Maybe this idea will help.  I use my GPS (Magellan 4000XLS) in a deep woods
situation and it has to be properly oriented to be able to "see" as many
satellites aspossible as the foilage is disrupting the radio signals it
receives.

I toyed around and found that it worked just right on my shoulder!  I got some
Velcro strips and glued one to the back of it and several to various coats,
vests and parkas.  I finally found a use for epaulets!  I simply loop the
strap over my head for a "just in case it comes loose, it won't hit the
ground" deal and fasten it to my shoulder.  Works great!

You could sticky glue some velcro to the waterproof case you keep it in and
sew and seal some velcro patches to your spray skirt.  This could be done in
several places so you can also attach various other items you might like handy
as flashlight, water bottle, etc.  The list and application is endless. 

Space Shuttle personnel do this to keep their things where they need them.
What works in space is bound to work for a "spaced out paddler" like us
kayakers.

John 



Date: Mon, 23 Nov 1998 09:31:15 -0600
From: (Chuck Holst)
Subject: [Paddlewise] GPS attachment for nigh

One problem with Velcro in wet conditions is that water tends to
lubricate the hooks and loops, so they don't hold as well as when dry.
That's the main reason I wear Tevas with Fastex buckles instead of
Velcro fasteners. I would choose another means of fastening the GPS.

Chuck Holst