Eric,

interesting reading. Parachutes are not required in sailplanes, but if
you wear one, it's supposed to be current. Does the same apply? (I'm
not looking for a discussion, just an interpretation. I had a friend
once claim his parachute was a seat cushion, and thus exempt from FAA
rulemaking. It was his business whether he jumped out of his glider
wearing only a seat cushion. ;-)

As for the rule, compliance is relatively cheap, and in the best
tradition of freedom of choice, we can measure value as we please. How
does it go? "A ten dollar helmet for a $10 head?"

Any sailors out there? Do you typically go for the cheapest available
EPIRBs? My only experience is with avalanche beacons. I chose the best
for two reasons. To increase my chances of being found, and to be able
to more effectively locate others. Since it's my friends who'll be
looking for me, or I for them, it seemed an argument of quality over
cost.