How Military Parachute Riggers Innovated and Upcycled Old Equipment to Make Belts and Watch Straps

Military parachute riggers have long been known for their resourcefulness and attention to detail, ensuring the safety of airborne troops by meticulously packing and maintaining parachutes. During World War II and beyond, parachute riggers became famous not just for their technical expertise but also for their ingenuity in upcycling old parachute equipment into functional, everyday items. Among the most notable creations were belts and watch straps, which became popular both within the military and in postwar civilian life.

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

How do I install my new watch strap?

- To install your new O-Rig watch strap, watch and follow the step-by-step video tutorial here.

- To install your new Grappleband watch strap, watch and follow the step-by-step video tutorial here.

- To install your new Riggerband M2 watch strap, watch and follow the step-by-step video tutorial here.

How do I install Garmin Ready Spring Bars?

To install your new Garmin Ready Spring Bars, watch and follow the step-by-step video tutorial here.

How do I measure my wrist size?
  1. Take a piece of string, boot lace or a strip of paper as a measuring guide and pass it around your wrist.
  2. Nip or mark the guide at the overlap.
  3. Gauge the measuring guide against a ruler to establish your wrist size.
  4. Round-up or round-down to the nearest 1/4 inch to determine the watch band size that is right for you.
What is the difference between Hawkrigger’s different clasps options?
  • The O-Rig has a cinch-down closure that uses static webbing for infinite adjustability.
  • The Grappleband has a secure hook closure that uses elastic webbing for exception comfort.
  • The Riggerband has a slot and tang closure with elastic webbing for secure but quick release operation.
How do I match correct strap width with the lug size my watch needs?

Measure the width of your watch’s lugs where the strap attaches to the watch. Common sizes are 18mm, 21m, 20mm, 22mm, 24mm and 26mm. You can also check the watch's specifications for the correct strap size.

How do I choose between 20mm or 22mm strap if I have a watch with 21mm lugs?

Hawkrigger offers 21mm width straps in 2 piece configuration. For all other straps where you may choose to pair a 20mm or 22mm strap with 21mm lug watch the choice is subjective and so entirely yours to make!

Do you offer strap customisation?

No, but we do offer a diverse range of types, styles, colors, sizes, webbing, and hardware, giving you plenty of options to create the perfect strap for your watch.

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