Creating Neck Collar - V1 - Lead Tube¶
Goal¶
To make a neck weight collar that fits comfortably around the neck and can be release quickly for safety.
Reference video¶
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JpFWPSaKNs
Reference Images¶
 |
 |
|---|---|
| Neck Collar Open | Neck Collar Closed |
Time needed¶
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Implementation | 0.25 h |
| Waiting | 0 h |
Bill of Materials¶
| Material | Quantity | Unit Cost | Line Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bike Inner Tube 26" Consumable |
0.4 tube | £6.49 per tube 26in | £2.60 |
| Loose Lead Consumable |
3 kg | £8.50 per kg | £25.50 |
| Quick Side Release Buckle 50mm Consumable |
1 unit | £6.00 per buckle | £6.00 |
| Electrical tape roll Consumable Wide PVC tape to join acrylic seams |
1 roll | Inexpensive | |
| Total | £34.10 |
Tools Required¶
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Scissors | Cut materials like fabric, film, or templates to size |
| Funnel | To channel the lead into the tube |
Inner tube width calculations¶
The tube width determines how much lead the main collar can hold. Use the table below to match the inner tube size to your target weight; the deltas show how much heavier each option is compared to a 2.5" baseline section of tube. Wider tubes may also need a larger buckle so the closed collar isn’t pinched or stressed.
| Tube label | Mass (kg) | Delta vs base |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5" | 3.38 | baseline |
| 2.6" | 3.57 | +0.19 |
| 2.7" | 3.97 | +0.59 |
| 2.75" | 4.14 | +0.76 |
| 3.0" | 4.75 | +1.37 |
Pick the tube width that gets you closest to the weight you want before you start pouring lead. If you need to fine-tune the weight later, adjust the length of the filled section slightly rather than switching to a different width.
Instructions (step-by-step)¶
Step 1 – Add the First Buckle
Cut one end of the bike inner tube and slide a buckle inside. Fold the tube back through the buckle and secure it tightly with electrical tape. This will form one end of the neck collar.
Step 2 – Fill with Lead Shots
Pour lead shots into the open end of the tube until you reach the target weight. Work slowly so the tube fills evenly and no air pockets remain. Make sure the tube stays soft and flexible when filled.
Step 3 – Check the Size
Getting the fit right is the most important part. Slide a second buckle onto the open end but do not tape it yet. Hold it closed and try the weight around your neck.
If it feels loose, remove a small amount of lead. If it feels tight, loosen the buckle until it sits comfortably.
Step 4 – Secure the Second Buckle
Once the size feels right, tape the second buckle securely. Wrap several tight turns of electrical tape so it will not slip.
Step 5 – Finish the Surface
Use more electrical tape to cover all joins and seams. Make sure the surface is smooth and nothing can rub against the skin. A clean finish helps the collar sit comfortably during dives.