Lifesling: original vs "Lifesling 2"
 

I notice that most US web-based vendors who used to carry the original
Lifesling now list it as no longer available.

They instead list a cheaper "Lifesling 2."

The new version replaces the (USCG-approved) original's 150' of
polypropylene line with 125' of unspecified "monofiliment."

Has anyone here ever tried to use this stuff (monofiliment) on a
winch?

Al
s/v Persephone

The new version replaces the (USCG-approved) original's 150' of
polypropylene line with 125' of unspecified "monofiliment."

Hi Al,

Are you sure you've got that right? The Lifesling2 that I've seen uses
a single braided -multifilament- (not -mono- filament) polypropelene
line, much like the original Lifesling. In fact, I've seen both and
don't recall there being much of a difference between the two, except as
you've already noted, the Lifesling2 is USCG approved as a "throwable
device".

In any event, the way I understand it, the tether is not designed for
towing or hoisting the swimmer. Rather, a block and tackle are used and
hooked to the sling's D-rings to hoist the swimmer aboard. At least
this is what was relayed to me when I spoke with the manufacturer's rep
many years ago and is how I've taught students to use it since.


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On Thu, 24 Feb 2005 13:26:15 -1000, renewontime dot com
wrote:

The new version replaces the (USCG-approved) original's 150' of
polypropylene line with 125' of unspecified "monofiliment."

Hi Al,

Are you sure you've got that right? The Lifesling2 that I've seen uses
a single braided -multifilament- (not -mono- filament) polypropelene
line, much like the original Lifesling. In fact, I've seen both and
don't recall there being much of a difference between the two, except as
you've already noted, the Lifesling2 is USCG approved as a "throwable
device".

In any event, the way I understand it, the tether is not designed for
towing or hoisting the swimmer. Rather, a block and tackle are used and
hooked to the sling's D-rings to hoist the swimmer aboard. At least
this is what was relayed to me when I spoke with the manufacturer's rep
many years ago and is how I've taught students to use it since.

Thanks for the clarification.

I was going by a web-site description of the differences between the
v2 and the original, which spoke of "monofilament" in v2 vs "braided
polypropelene" in the original.

Not being experienced in the use of the device, I had envisioned the
COB being hauled in toward the boat with a winch, and pictured myself
(or my wife) trying to do so with something that looked like the
leader on my fly-fishing line.

After much searching I found a source for the original where the
description of the two versions appeared to quote the mfr as saying
that v2 was a cost-reduced version for boats up to 30ft in length.

Since I have a 36 footer I ordered one of the originals.

Thanks for taking the time to respond.

Fair winds.

Al
s/v Persephone

Here are the descriptions of the original and v2 Lifeslings from the
web-site of Binnacle.com (note the "multifilament polypropylene line"
in the original vs the "monofilament retrieval line" of v2):


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LIFESLING HARDPACK - WHITE
Item ID: 16006

Price: $229.95

The Lifesling is recommended by leading safety authorities
as the most comprehensive approach to rescuing a crew
member who has gone overboard. It consists of a specially
designed storage bag or rigid case, 150' of floating retrieval
line, and a flotation collar that will float your largest crew
member even with all their gear on.

To meet USCG requirements, you must use it on a sailboat
over 20' or a powerboat with a hoisting point at least 10'
above deck.

American made, USCG approved Type V device.
Highly visible and flexible collar has 21lbs of
buoyancy.
Bag holds lifesling and retrieval line ready to go.
Instructions for use are printed on bag.
Can be mounted on a flat surface or rails.
Multifilament polopropylene line pays out easily.
Measures 22"H x 15"W x 6"D.

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LIFESLING 2 SOFTPACK - WHITE
Item ID: 16010

Price: $109.95

We've taken one of the most successful lifesaving products
of the last decade and made it simpler so that we can offer
it at a very attractive price! Our new Lifesling 2 has just
been Coast Guard-approved and provides the basic
functionality of the original Lifesling including the ability to
1) provide flotation to a person in the water, 2) make
contact with them and 3) provide a means of lifting them
back on board. By simplifying our manufacturing methods,
eliminating some hardware, and using 125' of monofilament
retrieval line, the new Lifesling 2 can be offered at the best
price ever on any Lifesling. We recommend it for owners of
20'-30' powerboats and sailboats who want a
cost-effective system for recovering a victim from the
water. Includes a flexible flotation collar with 20 lb. of
buoyancy, 125' of floating retrieval line and a handy
storage bag. Measures 22''H x 12.5''W x 5''D. Note: This
USCG-approved Lifesling 2 is suitable for powerboats with a
lifting point 10' above the water, and sailboats over 20'
LOA.

Here are the descriptions of the original and v2 Lifeslings from the
web-site of Binnacle.com (note the "multifilament polypropylene line"
in the original vs the "monofilament retrieval line" of v2):

Hi Al,

I think the "monofilament" for the LS2 is a typo. It's described as
having a "multifilament" line in my West Marine catalog.

On the topic of using a Lifesling to recover a COB, I seem to recall
there being a video on this. You might want to contact the manufacturer
to see if you can get a copy if it exists.

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