DCS and the Immune System
DCS and the Immune System. How bubbles trigger an immune response that can make or break your body's fight against decompression sickness.
Read MoreDCS and the Immune System
Andy Davis Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog
Articles for beginner to expert scuba divers
Andy Davis Sidemount Technical Wreck Diving Blog
Articles for beginner to expert scuba divers
A Buddy System Strategy for Air-Sharing Diving Emergencies
Don't get gas mugged - The role of situational awareness in predicting and avoiding stressful air-sharing emergencies in scuba diving
Read MoreA Buddy System Strategy for Air-Sharing Diving EmergenciesWhat scuba training agency is best for technical diving?
Which is the best scuba training agency for your technical diving training? Understand the differences!
Read MoreWhat scuba training agency is best for technical diving?AI Dive Computers | Using Air Integrated Transmitters for Diving
Are AI dive computers a valuable investment for divers? Honest pro advice on using transmitters with air integrated dive computers.
Read MoreAI Dive Computers | Using Air Integrated Transmitters for DivingWhat is the Balanced Rig Principle in Diving?
Balanced Rig Principle: improve diving safety with a calculated approach to the overall buoyancy dynamic. Survive BCD failures without drama.
Read MoreWhat is the Balanced Rig Principle in Diving?Types of Decompression Sickness (DCS)
Decompression sickness types and symptoms. Medical catagorizations of DCS, along with sub-clinical DCS, aka decompression stress.
Read MoreTypes of Decompression Sickness (DCS)Prepare For Technical Diving Courses | 5 Simple Steps For Success
It is vital to prepare for technical diving courses. Follow these steps for the best chance of success in your tech training.
Read MorePrepare For Technical Diving Courses | 5 Simple Steps For SuccessUsing Your Hands Whilst Scuba Diving
Using your hands when scuba diving is inefficient for maneuvering. Learn how to break this habit and become a better scuba diver.
Read MoreUsing Your Hands Whilst Scuba DivingHow to Judge Your Diving Ascent Rate Without a Dive Computer
Being able to judge your diving ascent rate is an invaluable safety skill if your computer or bottom timer fails. These tips show how!
Read MoreHow to Judge Your Diving Ascent Rate Without a Dive ComputerWhat is the best way to prepare for technical diving training?
Improve your success in technical diving training by following these straightforward steps to prepare yourself before the course starts.
Read MoreWhat is the best way to prepare for technical diving training?Top 10 Benefits Of Learning Technical Diving
Boost competence, comfort, and confidence by learning technical diving. Discover 10 surprising benefits that raise your ability as a diver!
Read MoreTop 10 Benefits Of Learning Technical DivingThe Physics of Diving – Scuba Gas Laws Theory
An explanation of the Scuba Gas Laws for Diving. Boyle's Law, Henry's Law, Charles Law, Dalton's Law, Oxygen Toxicity & Partial Pressures.
Read MoreThe Physics of Diving – Scuba Gas Laws TheoryDecompression Stress: Post-Dive Fatigue and Subclinical DCS
Sub-clinical DCS, decompression stress and post-dive fatigue. The impact of microbubbles on diver vitality and health.
Read MoreDecompression Stress: Post-Dive Fatigue and Subclinical DCSTechnical Diving Experience: The Complacency Paradox
The technical diving experience paradox - acquiring more experience increases the opportunity for complacency to creep in & decrease safety.
Read MoreTechnical Diving Experience: The Complacency ParadoxGradient Factor Comparison: 60m Trimix Case-Study
Comparing three gradient factor settings on a 60m trimix dive plan to discuss off-gassing efficiency and DCS risk.
Read MoreGradient Factor Comparison: 60m Trimix Case-StudyScuba World Depth Records – Science versus the Human Factor
Perspective on scuba world depth records: human physiology versus the limitations of diving science and technology.
Read MoreScuba World Depth Records – Science versus the Human FactorSidemount Training: How To Find An Effective Course
Sidemount training varies enormously in quality. Read these tips to identify the expertise and experience you need in a sidemount instructor.
Read MoreSidemount Training: How To Find An Effective CourseHow To Use A Pony Cylinder For Diving
A comprehensive 'how to' guide to pony cylinder benefits, selection, gas planning and usage. Everything you need to know about pony cylinders.
Read MoreHow To Use A Pony Cylinder For DivingHow Deep Can You Dive Using Air?
There are three governing factors which determine how deep can you dive using air. Understanding those factors promotes safe gas selection.
Read MoreHow Deep Can You Dive Using Air?Using your BCD or a Drysuit for Buoyancy Control?
Should you choose your BCD or drysuit for buoyancy control? Find out the advantages and disadvantages of each option in this article.
Read MoreUsing your BCD or a Drysuit for Buoyancy Control?When To Drop Your Weight Belt On A Scuba Dive?
Learn when to drop your weight belt to survive a scuba diving accident. Tips and advice on weight belts and technqiues.
Read MoreWhen To Drop Your Weight Belt On A Scuba Dive?CO2 Narcosis and Hypercapnia When Scuba Diving
Did you know that mild CO2 retention (hypercapnia) causes acute CO2 narcosis symptoms when you are diving? Don't assume it is nitrogen!
Read MoreCO2 Narcosis and Hypercapnia When Scuba DivingChanging to an AIR-2 Octopus AAS
What are the pros and cons to changing to an AIR-2 regulator inflator octopus (AAS) system? What needs to be considered? Best AIR-2 systems?
Read MoreChanging to an AIR-2 Octopus AASThe History of Subic Bay
The History of Subic Bay A concise history of Subic Bay, charting 500 years of turmoil, conflict and occupation The history of Subic Bay reflects many centuries of war and turbulence. The Bay has strategic significance as a protected deep-water…
How To Overcome Fear of Mask Removal When Scuba Diving?
Learn how to overcome fear of mask removal when scuba diving with these expert tips. Improve your skills and confidence underwater.
Read MoreHow To Overcome Fear of Mask Removal When Scuba Diving?Scuba Diving Cylinders: Steel or Aluminium?
Understand the characteristics, benefits & drawbacks to scuba diving cylinders. This article helps you decide between steel & aluminum tanks.
Read MoreScuba Diving Cylinders: Steel or Aluminium?Technical Diving Skills | Reaching Your Valves
This article, posted at DiveDIR, gives great advice on how to reach your valves when conducting valve shutdown procedures.
Read MoreTechnical Diving Skills | Reaching Your ValvesSheck Exley’s Razor – The Nature of Diving Limits
A re-published article discussing Sheck Exley's 'Razor' and the consideration of limits for overhead environment and technical divers.
Read MoreSheck Exley’s Razor – The Nature of Diving LimitsNudibranch in Anilao Nudibranch – Philippines Underwater Photography
Anilao nudibranch: Philippines underwater photography from one of the prime muck and macro dive locations in the world.
Read MoreNudibranch in Anilao Nudibranch – Philippines Underwater PhotographyThe Complement System When Diving: DCS And Immune Response
The Complement System and Diving by Dr. Ernest Campbell. The role of the immune response in sub-clinical DCS & decompression stress issues.
Read MoreThe Complement System When Diving: DCS And Immune ResponseThe Ultimate Buyer’s Guide To Choosing A Scuba Diving Wetsuit
Looking for the perfect scuba diving wetsuit? My buyer's guide for divers will help you learn about materials, sizes, features, care & more!
Read MoreThe Ultimate Buyer’s Guide To Choosing A Scuba Diving WetsuitRisk Assessment in Scuba Diving: The Key Steps To Safer Dives
Learn a step-by-step process for risk assessment in scuba diving and why it is vital to ensure your safety as a scuba diver!
Read MoreRisk Assessment in Scuba Diving: The Key Steps To Safer DivesTop-5 Best Sidemount Fins 2024
Choosing the right set of sidemount fins is an important decision. They have a profound effect on diver trim and control. With that recommendation in mind, here is my pick of the top 5 warm-water sidemount fins.
Read MoreTop-5 Best Sidemount Fins 2024Advanced Wreck Diving: The Ultimate Guide
A comprehensive guide to advanced wreck diving techniques, equipment, skills and protocols. A must-read for wreck divers at all levels.
Read MoreAdvanced Wreck Diving: The Ultimate GuideWhat is the Best Watch Sized Diving Computer? | 2024
A comprehensive buying guide to the best watch sized diving computer in 2024. Explore the details & specifications to for the best informed decision!
Read MoreWhat is the Best Watch Sized Diving Computer? | 2024Dive into Fun: A Parent’s Guide to Youth Scuba Diving for Kids
Discover the joy of youth scuba diving for kids. A parent's guide to safe and thrilling underwater adventures for children and young adults!
Read MoreDive into Fun: A Parent’s Guide to Youth Scuba Diving for KidsA Simple Guide To Dive Computer Algorithms
Not all dive computer algorithms are created equal. Learn the differences and make an informed decision when buying your next dive computer.
Read MoreA Simple Guide To Dive Computer AlgorithmsDrysuit Gloves: An Ultimate Divers Guide To Dry Glove Systems
Everything about drysuit gloves! Dry glove materials, seal systems & thermal inners. Uncover the secrets to a comfortable cold water dive!
Read MoreDrysuit Gloves: An Ultimate Divers Guide To Dry Glove SystemsTropical And Cold Water Diving: What’s The Difference?
Discover the difference between tropical & cold water diving. Learn the right dive gear & techniques for safe, enjoyable diving experiences.
Read MoreTropical And Cold Water Diving: What’s The Difference?A Guide to SMBs and DSMBs for Scuba Diving
Learn how to choose, deploy, and maintain surface marker buoys (SMBs) and delayed surface marker buoys (DSMBs) for safe scuba diving!
Read MoreA Guide to SMBs and DSMBs for Scuba DivingA Guide To Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) For Scuba Diving
Learn about Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) for scuba diving. A divers guide to choosing, using, and maintaining a PLB for dive safety.
Read MoreA Guide To Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) For Scuba DivingThe Passion for Scuba Diving: Dopamine Hits vs. Serotonin Satisfaction
Learn how dopamine & serotonin reward mechanisms shape our enjoyment of scuba diving; impacting diver safety, proficiency & active participation.
Read MoreThe Passion for Scuba Diving: Dopamine Hits vs. Serotonin SatisfactionThe Essential Guide to Emergency Signaling Devices for Scuba Diving Safety
Level up your scuba diving! A guide to emergency signaling devices: types, features, proper usage, and maintenance. Dive with reassurance!
Read MoreThe Essential Guide to Emergency Signaling Devices for Scuba Diving SafetyThe Ultimate Guide to Blackwater Diving
Discover blackwater diving with this ultimate guide! Learn about gear, safety, techniques, photography, marine life & best destinations.
Read MoreThe Ultimate Guide to Blackwater DivingThe 10 Best Muck Diving & Macro Photography Sites in the World
Explore the 10 best muck diving sites for macro photography in the world.
Read MoreThe 10 Best Muck Diving & Macro Photography Sites in the WorldMuck Diving in Subic Bay, Philippines
Muck diving underwater photography in Subic Bay, Philippines. Experience the rare marine life to be found in this photographer's paradise!
Read MoreMuck Diving in Subic Bay, PhilippinesHow to Tie a Regulator Bungee Necklace
Technique and video showing how to tie a DIY regulator bungee necklace for your hogarthian or sidemount short hose regulator.
Read MoreHow to Tie a Regulator Bungee NecklaceShearwater Dive Computer Settings: A Guide to Gradient Factors
An illustrated guide to getting the best out of your Shearwater dive computer settings. Don't be intimidated by the advanced display options!
Read MoreShearwater Dive Computer Settings: A Guide to Gradient FactorsTechnical Diving Valve Shutdown Drill Explained
Follow these 21 methodical and simple steps to effectively drill the technical diving valve shutdown drill for increased safety & proficiency.
Read MoreTechnical Diving Valve Shutdown Drill ExplainedAir Integrated Dive Computers with AI Sidemount Mode
AI sidemount mode differs from just having multiple cylinder transmitters. Discover the best air integrated sidemount diving computers!
Read MoreAir Integrated Dive Computers with AI Sidemount ModeXDeep Stealth Modifications: Low-Profile Waist Buckle
The benefit of adding a low-profile waist buckle to your sidemount system.
Read MoreXDeep Stealth Modifications: Low-Profile Waist BucklePony Cylinders and Redundant Air Sources for Wreck Diving
What is a pony cylinder? Why are they recommended for wreck divers? This article answers your questions.
Read MorePony Cylinders and Redundant Air Sources for Wreck DivingXDeep Stealth Classic Modifications: Crotch Bungee
A nice modification to create a removable XDeep Stealth Classic wing lower attachment.
Read MoreXDeep Stealth Classic Modifications: Crotch BungeeHow Can I Make My Air Last Longer When Scuba Diving?
Make your air last longer when scuba diving by following these simply tips. Read the solution to end frustration of high gas consumption!
Read MoreHow Can I Make My Air Last Longer When Scuba Diving?Sidemount Air Integration | Ultimate Guide to AI Transmitter Setup
Sidemount air integration. An illustrated step-by-step guide to configuring AI transmitters optimally for sidemount regulators. Perfect setup!
Read MoreSidemount Air Integration | Ultimate Guide to AI Transmitter SetupRecreational Diving Limits: Assessing The Grey Area Versus Technical Diving
Recreational diving limits become increasingly blurred with technical diving. Why are limits required & how do divers need to consider them?
Read MoreRecreational Diving Limits: Assessing The Grey Area Versus Technical DivingHow To Best Ascend When Scuba Diving?
Three important tips on how to ascend when scuba diving. Read this to increase your safety and enjoy less fatigue after your dives!
Read MoreHow To Best Ascend When Scuba Diving?Top-5 Best Books For Diving Instructors!
The best books for diving instructors to improve teaching ability & train better divers. None of this was taught in your dive pro courses!
Read MoreTop-5 Best Books For Diving Instructors!What are the two styles of sidemount BCD design?
There are two styles of sidemount BCD: Mexican cave & Florida cave. Understanding the differences allows the best choice for your needs.
Read MoreWhat are the two styles of sidemount BCD design?XDeep Stealth Modification: Redundant Buoyancy
This XDeep Stealth modification adds redundant buoyancy to the Classic, Tec or Rec sidemount BCDs. It is a simple oral inflation system.
Read MoreXDeep Stealth Modification: Redundant BuoyancyA Guide to Modern Sidemount Diving
A comprehensive guide to sidemount diving. What it is, the history, the equipment styles, how it is configured, gear setup and everything else you need to know.
Read MoreA Guide to Modern Sidemount DivingWhat is Diving Experience? Can it Define an Expert Diver?
Divers often talk about diving experience. But what does that mean? Learn the difference between an experienced diver and an expert diver!
Read MoreWhat is Diving Experience? Can it Define an Expert Diver?Deep Diver Courses: What You Really Need To Know!
An honest appraisal of the training given on recreational Deep Diver courses versus the risks that exist on deeper dives.
Read MoreDeep Diver Courses: What You Really Need To Know!The Best Ascent Speed for Scuba Diving
Learn the best ascent speed for scuba diving. Contrary to assumptions, slower is not always safer when it comes to diving ascent rate!
Read MoreThe Best Ascent Speed for Scuba DivingWhy Do I Feel Tired After Diving? How To Avoid Post-Dive Fatigue
Do you feel tired after diving? Read this article to understand what REALLY causes post-dive fatigue & the simple steps needed to avoid it!
Read MoreWhy Do I Feel Tired After Diving? How To Avoid Post-Dive FatiguePro Tips For Choosing The Best Scuba Diving BCD For Your Needs
Honest pro tips on how to buy the best scuba diving BCD for your needs. Learn about BCD features, functions, designs and suitability!
Read MorePro Tips For Choosing The Best Scuba Diving BCD For Your NeedsScuba Diving Regulator Buyers Guide
This honest and impartial scuba diving regulator purchase guide will save you money. Avoid making costly mistakes when buying expensive dive gear.
Read MoreScuba Diving Regulator Buyers GuideWhat are the Risks of Deep Diving?
Deep diving risks are badly educated on many dive courses. This article is a comprehensive guide to the hazards of deeper recreational diving.
Read MoreWhat are the Risks of Deep Diving?Why Do More Diving Courses After Open Water Diver Certification?
What is the value of doing more diving courses after open water diver certification? It all depends finding a high quality course. Read how!
Read MoreWhy Do More Diving Courses After Open Water Diver Certification?Problems Reaching The XDeep Stealth Dump Valve
There are 6 issues commonly causing problems reaching the XDeep Stealth dump valve. Read my simple advice to easily fix those issues!
Read MoreProblems Reaching The XDeep Stealth Dump ValveUltimate Guide to Diver Propulsion Vehicles: DPVs and Diving Scooters
Everything you need to know about DPV diving! Learn about the features, functions, price ranges, and suitability for different types of diving
Read MoreUltimate Guide to Diver Propulsion Vehicles: DPVs and Diving ScootersHow To Use A Long Hose Regulator Configuration For Recreational Single-Tank Diving
Discover the art of safe diving with a long hose regulator! Explore this comprehensive step-by-step guide for recreational single-tank divers.
Read MoreHow To Use A Long Hose Regulator Configuration For Recreational Single-Tank DivingUnderwater Metal Detectors: Ultimate Guide For Treasure Diving
Underwater Metal Detectors add adventure to your diving! This guide explains how they work, their features, effective operation & safety tips!
Read MoreUnderwater Metal Detectors: Ultimate Guide For Treasure DivingDiving Accident Analysis: Christine Gauci Fatality | Malta 2020
Assessing critical learning points to help promote increased dive safety. In January 2020, Christine Gauci, a 35-year old technical diver tragically perished in a scuba diving accident in Malta.
Read MoreDiving Accident Analysis: Christine Gauci Fatality | Malta 2020Diving Mask Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need To Know!
Learn the secrets to buying your perfect dive mask with this comprehensive divers guide. From features to fit, these pro tips will help!
Read MoreDiving Mask Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need To Know!Adaptive Diving: Redefining Scuba Diver Independence & Inclusivity
A comprehensive guide to scuba diving for people with disabilities through the liberating and therapeutic opportunities of adapative diving.
Read MoreAdaptive Diving: Redefining Scuba Diver Independence & InclusivitySolve Dive Mask Fogging: Your Expert Guide To Prevent Mask Fog
End the frustration of mask fog with my comprehensive guide! Say goodbye to dive mask fogging forever with this 100% working solution.
Read MoreSolve Dive Mask Fogging: Your Expert Guide To Prevent Mask FogThe Ultimate Diving Gloves Buyers Guide For Divers
Get the best diving gloves for your needs with this comprehensive divers resource. Essential information & pro tips for the perfect purchase!
Read MoreThe Ultimate Diving Gloves Buyers Guide For DiversOverconfidence in Scuba Diving: The Psychology of Diver Hubris
The psychology of diving overconfidence exposed. Learn how you are predisposed to overestimating your ability & how that lowers your safety.
Read MoreOverconfidence in Scuba Diving: The Psychology of Diver HubrisMastering Competency in Scuba Diving: The Path From Novice to Expert Diver
What is scuba diving competency? How does it differ from skills & experience? Learn how to improve your competency and why that matters!
Read MoreMastering Competency in Scuba Diving: The Path From Novice to Expert DiverScuba Diving Risk Management: Heuristics And Dive Safety
Learn how heuristic thinking harms scuba diving risk management. Read this to safeguard against cognitive biases for safe & successful dives!
Read MoreScuba Diving Risk Management: Heuristics And Dive SafetyA Diving Hood Buyer’s Guide: Stay Toasty, Dive Cozy
Choosing the right diving hood has never been easier with this comprehensive guide. What you need to know to dive with warmth and comfort.
Read MoreA Diving Hood Buyer’s Guide: Stay Toasty, Dive CozyDiving Psychology: The Benefits & Applications For Divers
Learn about the science of diving psychology and how it can enhance your skills, safety, and enjoyment underwater.
Read MoreDiving Psychology: The Benefits & Applications For DiversTop-10 Tips: How To Prepare For Technical Diving Training
Technical diving training is HARD! Increase your chance of success with these top-10 tips on how to prepare for your tech diving course!
Read MoreTop-10 Tips: How To Prepare For Technical Diving TrainingNormalization of Deviance: Insidious Drift Into Dangerous Diving
A must-read guide to normalization of deviance: the dangerous slide into irrationally justifying bad diving judgments & avoidable accidents.
Read MoreNormalization of Deviance: Insidious Drift Into Dangerous DivingExperience is overrated. Diving ability matters!
Diving experience isn't the path to mastery. Read this to learn what is really necessary to develop expertise as a scuba diver!
Read MoreExperience is overrated. Diving ability matters!Situational Awareness: The Most Neglected Diving Safety Skill
Discover the key to safer diving: situational awareness. How can poor training diminish it? And what steps can you take to improve it?
Read MoreSituational Awareness: The Most Neglected Diving Safety SkillUltimate Solo Diver Guide: Independent & Self-Reliant Diving
Must-know advice for a pathway to being a safe solo diver. Honest dive pro insights on self-reliant training & independent diving abilities.
Read MoreUltimate Solo Diver Guide: Independent & Self-Reliant DivingThe USS New York Wreck, Subic Bay
Dive site details for the USS New York wreck in Subic Bay, Philippines. History, dive details and video of this famous shipwreck for divers.
Read MoreThe USS New York Wreck, Subic BayThe Role of Emotional Intelligence & Self-Awareness in Diver Development
Learn how emotional intelligence and self-awareness contribute to the mastery of diving skills and the mitigation of dive safety risks.
Read MoreThe Role of Emotional Intelligence & Self-Awareness in Diver DevelopmentThe Dunning-Kruger Effect and Risk Judgment in Scuba Diving
The impact of Dunning-Kruger Effect in scuba diving risk assessment. Dive into the psychology of over-confidence & flawed diver judgment.
Read MoreThe Dunning-Kruger Effect and Risk Judgment in Scuba DivingScuba Diving Mastery: The Deliberate Practice Approach
Deliberate practice is a methodology for the most efficient skill development. Learn how to fast-track your diving competency with this guide.
Read MoreScuba Diving Mastery: The Deliberate Practice ApproachAltitude Diving Adventures: All You Need to Know
Altitude Diving Demystified: A complete guide to high-altitude underwater exploration. Expert tips & insights for unforgettable experiences.
Read MoreAltitude Diving Adventures: All You Need to KnowUltimate Buoyancy Control Guide: Dive with Effortless Precision
Unlock the secrets of developing perfect buoyancy control in this comprehensive step-by-step divers guide!
Read MoreUltimate Buoyancy Control Guide: Dive with Effortless PrecisionDiving Stress Management: Scuba Diver Panic & Anxiety
A realistic examination of scuba diving stress management. What does it REALLY take for a diver to overcome panic when a dive goes wrong?
Read MoreDiving Stress Management: Scuba Diver Panic & AnxietyXDeep Stealth Tec vs Hollis Katana 2 Reviewed
Comparative dive review of the XDeep Stealth Tec versus the Hollis Katana 2 sidemount BCDs. Specifications, features, options, prices, performance
Read MoreXDeep Stealth Tec vs Hollis Katana 2 ReviewedPFO – Patent Foramen Ovale and DCS Risk in Diving
What every scuba diver should know about PFO (Patent Foramen Ovale) and DCS risk. Is your heart putting you at risk?
Read MorePFO – Patent Foramen Ovale and DCS Risk in DivingScuba Diving Anxiety & CO2 Narcosis
Did you know that scuba diving anxiety can arise from CO2 narcosis? Learn why descent speed, gas density & exertion can affect your dives!
Read MoreScuba Diving Anxiety & CO2 NarcosisGrading Wreck Diving Restrictions
Defining grades of wreck diving restrictions. How to assess the severity of restrictions when planning your dives in backmount and sidemount
Read MoreGrading Wreck Diving RestrictionsScuba Diving Descent Speed: What You Need to Know!
This article has everything that you were never taught about scuba diving descent speed! What effects and issues does the descent rate have?
Read MoreScuba Diving Descent Speed: What You Need to Know!
