0
genitor

Vector-style RSL

Recommended Posts

I was just wondering why no other rig (correct me if I'm wrong) has the Vector-style RSL (ie, reserve is closed with RSL directly, instead of the ripcord through the ring)? It seems to me that the design is superior. So, it surprises me that no other rig has it, especially on rigs that are seemingly copies of the Vector (Icon, Mirage).

This question also applies to the Collins' Lanyard. Does RWS have a patent on these designs, and if so, do they not license them (or price them too highly)?

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites
I know the Zerox (manufactured in the UK) uses a vector-style RSL, but I also believe it is an exact copy of the Vector, so it would!
As for your question about the Collin's Lanyard, do a search with those two words on the forums right here on DZ.com and, like most things, you will probably find out more about the subject than you ever thought there was to know! :P

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites
Vector-style RSL is also found on Concept harness/containers built by Skyworld Specialties in Canada and a few other Vector clones. The most amusing clone is Parachutes de France LOR system which uses a pair of RSLs tied to TWO curved reserve pins!
Hee!
Hee!
To quote Bill Booth: "Yes it looks weird, but I defy anyone to design a better RSL."
RSLs on most other rigs are after-thoughts or modifications to existing designs, while Bill Booth actually rethought the entire RSL design process. Plus, Booth designed a cool new pin for his RSL.

Yes, Collins lanyards are a marked improvement on everybody else's RSLs, but Booth's neatest innovation is his Skyhook.
Let's face it, rig design is converging these days, so there is little difference between Vector 3, Infinity, Mirage, Icon, Atom, Sidewinder, etc. except for Booth's RSL/Collins Lanyard/Skyhook innovations. So if your selection is based on price, buy any of the rigs listed above, but if your choice is based on safety, buy a Vector M-Series or Micron tricked out with a Skyhook RSL.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites
Quote

...but if your choice is based on safety, buy a Vector M-Series or Micron tricked out with a Skyhook RSL.



Ditto here. Plus, you get the only rig, which reserve pin cover flap resists a push (like door strike, etc.) from any direction (thanks to a "fold back"). On other rigs, if a strong push is applied from the bottom up, the reserve flap can move upward (and move a pin), even if the flap stays "closed".

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites
Quote

Can you confirm that your message says that Bill Booth designed the Parachutes de France LOR system's RSL system? That's what I thought I read.



>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

No
Designers at Parachutes de France may have looked at Vectors before they designed their LOR system, but the LOR is a distinctly French design.
Never seen it on any rig other than ATOM.
And I very much doubt if Bill Booth had any say in the design of LOR.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

0