main vs. reserve.

[atsaubrey 0]

is there a difference between a main and reserve, besides the way it is packed?

"GOT LEAD?"

[Hooknswoop 19]

The biggest difference is that a reserve is TSO'd. TSO stands for Technical Standard Order. This is a minimum performance & strength certification from the FAA.

Reserves tend to be made of F-111 (really Exacta-chute material, but the name F-111 has stuck). There is at least one with a ZP top skin option. They increase in porosity quickly compared to ZP mains. Most are 7 cell, low aspect ratio canopies. They are built strong and open fast and usually hard compared to most mains. They don’t have kill line sliders or Vectran or HMA lines or other ‘performance enhancing’ options that mains have.

Derek

[atsaubrey 0]

ok you got alot over my head with that answer. could someone use a "main" as a reserve like the military HALO rigs use, and just have a rigger pack it accordingly?

"GOT LEAD?"

[skygod7777 0]

Quote

ok you got alot over my head with that answer. could someone use a "main" as a reserve like the military HALO rigs use, and just have a rigger pack it accordingly?

if the main is tso'd and the rigger says it is air worthy, then yes. but you don't really want to use something that was a main as a reserve.

later

[Hooknswoop 19]

No, a reserve has to be certified (TSO'd).

Derek

[mjosparky 4]

That one you have is for main use only, I do not know the history on the canopy and I for one would not pack it a a reserve.
Sparky

My idea of a fair fight is clubbing baby seals

[riggerrob 643]

Reserves must be in near-new condition, whereas mains can be pretty "tired."
Most riggers will not touch a reserve that has popped stitches, stains, small holes, more than a couple of patches, lines more than an inch out of trim, more than a dozen jumps, etc.
You would be amazed at some of the faded, frayed and filthy main canopies that people still jump.
Hee! Hee!