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## Securing the Deployment Device 

With all deployment methods, it is necessary to properly fold or stow the canopy and secure the deployment device with the lines. The early parachutes utilized hesitator loops to secure the lines. [Figure 2-28] This method is still used today in many military systems. 

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In modern designs that utilize types 1 through 4 and 6, the preferred method of locking the deployment device is rubber bands. The specification for standard rubber bands is MIL-R-1832. Type 1 are made of natural rubber and are 1 ⁄2" × 2". These were designed for use with the thicker Type III nylon lines such as on the 28' C-9 canopy. Many of the newer lightweight, round canopies use smaller diameter and fewer lines. Consequently, the standard rubber bands do not work well. Some manufacturers supply smaller, 1¼" diameter rubber bands to be used with their canopies. It is extremely important to utilize the correct size rubber bands. 

With the introduction of the free bag system in 1977, Para- Flite, Inc., used a BUNA-N “O” ring to secure the locking stows. [Figure 2-29]  During testing of the free bag system, they found inconsistent holding and breaking strengths of rubber bands. They wanted the locking stows to release at a consistent force to prevent bag lock. The “O” rings provided this. A couple of years later, the “O” rings were upgraded to a thicker diameter model. In 1983, Para-Flite, Inc. replaced 

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the “O” rings with the Safety Stow $^{®}$. The Safety Stow$^{®}$ is a continuous loop of elastic shock cord that runs through a webbing channel and through two grommets to secure the first two locking stows. [Figure 2-30]  In the event of any restriction on the locking stow, as the loop stretches, it allows first one side to release and then the opposite side. 

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It is important to maintain the rubber bands or Safety Stow$^{®}$. Rubber bands are susceptible to heat degradation and may dry out. If they break prematurely during use, the parachute may malfunction. Non-mil. specification rubber bands may react to natural brass grommets and may become gummy and sticky, causing the lines to stick to the diaper or bag. Rubber bands should be replaced during routine Inspection and Repack. [Figure 2-31A and B] The BUNA-N “O” rings should be replaced with the Safety Stow$^{®}$. The Safety Stow $^{®}$ should be inspected for broken stitching or internal rubber strands. [Figure 2-32] 

In response to occasional violent openings on ram-air canopies, Parachute Labs (Jump Shack) in 2003 introduced the “speed bag” to eliminate “line dump” (line strip). The lines are retained in rubber bands 25 percent in from the edge of the bag. This balances the mass of the stows between the 

