Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Products
- Why should I buy a Mirage?
- The Mirage is not a cheap rig. How can I justify this when other rigs are available for a lot less?
- I've seen other rigs have a reserve pilot chute that packs on the outside, or partially on the outside. Isn't that better, and why doesn't the Mirage use that?
- I jump a high performance canopy and I have heard some people having trouble cutting away. Does the Mirage address this issue?
- I'm coming to Florida and want to stop by. Where are you and when can I visit?
- Can I still order a Mirage G3?
- How is the RTS different from a G3 or G4?
- Policies
- Can I buy direct from Mirage Systems?
- When are payments due?
- May I make payment with a credit card?
- Does Mirage Systems offer financing?
- What are Mirage Systems return policies?
- What does Mirage Systems warrantee?
- How will my Mirage order be shipped?
- Containers
- I am a free flyer. Should I have a soft reserve ripcord handle or a metal one?
- Does the Mirage have any free flyer specific features?
- Can I get the same backpad on my Mirage G3 that is offered on the Mirage G4.1?
- What's the difference between the G3 and G4?
- How durable is the padded back pad on the Mirage G4?
- What's the difference between the G4.0 and G4.1?
- How durable is the G4 standard elastic lumbar support? Doesn't elastic wear out?
- Why did Mirage Systems switch to a molar free bag on the Mirage G4?
- I am a free flyer. Does the G4 have any free flyer specific features?
- What deployment systems are available on the RTS?
- Harnesses
- Do I need regular three rings, or can I get the mini-rings?
- Are hip rings or chest rings worth the extra money?
- I have seen that other manufacturers have the stabilizers (aka laterals) "cut-into" the back pad. Can I get this on my Mirage G3?
- Can I get the elastic lumbar on my Mirage G3, like that found on the Mirage G4?
- Can I get the Fancy Pants elastic leg strap retention on my Mirage?
- Are ring harnesses available on the RTS?
- Appearance
- Can I get the colors I want?
- Can I have a custom logo on my container? How about Mirage logos?
- Can I get the RTS customized with my DZ logo?
- Sizing
- How does the sizing work on a Mirage container?
- I'm only 5'4" tall, and I'm really sick of rigs that hang low over my butt. Does Mirage make a rig that's going to fit my small torso size?
- I'm getting a Sabre-150, but I want a really small rig. Can I get an M0 or even an MT?
- I've had my Mirage for a while, and want to put a smaller main in it. How small can I go?
- How do I size my container with a cross braced canopy?
- Delivery
- Maintenance
- My Mirage reserve is sticking up much more then the pictures I've seen, and when I press on it, I can feel the pilot chute spring compress. Is that right?
- I've had my Mirage for a while and want the factory to look it over and fix anything that needs fixing. Can I do that?
- Upgrades
- Can I upgrade my G1 with Velcro riser covers to tuck tabs?
- Can I upgrade my current Mirage to a Unisyn chest and hip ring harness?
- Does Mirage Systems have a trade in program?
- Used Gear
Products
- Why should I buy a Mirage?
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Several significant reasons stand out. First, we build each Mirage with uncompromising quality standards. We are located in DeLand, FL, THE skydiving industry town, so most of our production workers have worked for rig manufacturers before, some for as many as 20 years. Our people are very, very good. Our pin protection is second to none. That's very important these days as people push the boundaries of freefall more and more. Our reserve deployment is the fastest in the industry. Our comfort level is designed for serious jumpers making 8-10+ jumps per day for days on end. We want the most hard-core jumpers to feel at home. Want some more reasons? Ask someone with a Mirage.
- The Mirage is not a cheap rig. How can I justify this when other rigs are available for a lot less?
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Depending on your financial situation, you may not be able to. We made the Mirage for people who are looking for the highest quality product available to trust their lives to. The level of quality we have achieved costs more than what you can get away with if you use mediocre materials and don't do the detail work the way we do. Read this web site well, especially product information, and think about what you are buying a rig for. We hope this helps you make your choice.
- I've seen other rigs have a reserve pilot chute that packs on the outside, or partially on the outside. Isn't that better, and why doesn't the Mirage use that?
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We cover this question in our "Products" section. Look under Features | Powerful Reserve Deployment. Suffice it to say here that overall reserve deployment is a complex process governed by a number of variables, only one of which is where the pilot chute is packed. Far more important is how strong the pilot chute is and how well it grabs air.
- I jump a high performance canopy and I have heard some people having trouble cutting away. Does the Mirage address this issue?
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One of the main reasons for difficult cutaways is twisted risers, which bind the excess cutaway cable. Mirage Systems offers armored risers as standard equipment. These incorporate metal housings to provide a clear channel for the cutaway cables. Mirage Systems is also the only sport harness/container manufacturer to use the Mil spec one-piece cutaway housing end fitting. These end fittings provide cleaner cutaways and are much more resistant to failure during hard openings than are conventional amp fittings.
- I'm coming to Florida and want to stop by. Where are you and when can I visit?
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We're located in DeLand, 20 miles west of Daytona Beach. Take the main airport entrance off Rt. 92 (the road from Daytona), where the flag and marker are. We're about 100 yards up on the right. Office hours are 9 AM to 5 PM Monday - Friday. We'd love to show you what we're up to! Our physical address is 1501A. Lexington Ave., Deland, FL 32724
- Can I still order a Mirage G3?
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Yes, Mirage Systems is continuing production of the Mirage G3. There wasn't any reason to discontinue the very popular design. There are some options that are not available on the Mirage G3. The Mirage G3 is our base model container.
- How is the RTS different from a G3 or G4?
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The RTS is based on the tried-and-true G3 platform, with the addition of a number of modifications appropriate to the training environment. It has a removable belly band, to snug a large rig to a small body. It has a clear plastic window in the reserve pin cover flap for easy visual pin checks at any time, and an external yoke mounted Cypres pouch, so the Cypres can be activated and checked while the rig is being worn. The RTS also has a backpad carry handle and data pocket. It comes standard with large 3 rings and risers and an RSL. It can be equipped with optional radio pockets, an adjustable main lift web and leg pads, and a variety of popular main deployment systems.
Policies
- Can I buy direct from Mirage Systems?
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Yes, but we recommend that you purchase your Mirage through a dealer where they can offer you hands-on service. If you are confused about which dealer to use, we can recommend one in your area, or recommend some of the larger ones, but you need to pick someone you'll be happy with. All of our dealers have our support, and we think they will each do a good job for you given the chance. If you want to go through your DZ, but they are not a dealer, encourage them to contact us and we will determine if they qualify for a dealership. Buy through Mirage or find a dealer near you.
- When are payments due?
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Mirage Systems harness/containers are made custom for each customer. A deposit or full payment may be required at the time of ordering.
- May I make payment with a credit card?
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Yes, Mirage Systems accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. The discount on your purchase, if any is received, will be reduced by 3% when using a credit card for payment.
- Does Mirage Systems offer financing?
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No, we no longer offer financing options for our containers.
- What are Mirage Systems return policies?
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On custom orders, we guarantee the fit of your Mirage for ninety days after receipt. Any modifications required after that time are at the customer's expense. Stock rigs do not carry the same guarantee. Modifications for fitting are charged to the customer. A stock rig may be returned for a nominal restocking fee. Mirage Systems reserves the right to refuse any return. All sales are final.
- What does Mirage Systems warrantee?
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Mirage Systems warranty covers all manufacturing defects for 90 days. Excessive wear, abuse, or neglect are not covered under our warranty. All warranty claims must be sent to the Mirage Systems customer service department for inspection and evaluation.
- How will my Mirage order be shipped?
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Mirage Systems uses UPS ground for product shipments. UPS has shown the most reliability and consistency of all the courier services. Packages inside the continental US will be shipped ground service. Upgrades are available at additional cost. Dealers wishing to use other services do so at the DEALER'S risk. Some forms of shipping services will incur additional handling fees.
Containers
- I am a free flyer. Should I have a soft reserve ripcord handle or a metal one?
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That is a decision you need to make after evaluating your situation. Many jumpers have switched to the soft reserve ripcord because they are much harder to snag accidentally, and an accidental head-down reserve deployment is unpleasant at best. Our exclusive metal handle ripcord is much smaller and less prone to snag than the traditional D-handle design. Jumpers wearing thick gloves might want to consider the Mirage metal handle over the soft reserve handle because it may be easier to grip under certain circumstances. Remember, this is your last parachute.
- Does the Mirage have any free flyer specific features?
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The Mirage G3 and G4 are both very freefly friendly. We designed our metal ripcord to be a smaller, lower profile to reduce snagging. In 1997 we developed secondary riser covers (Freefly Mods), which have since been copied but not duplicated by other manufacturers. In 1998 we made these secondary riser covers standard. Our low profile freefly handle is the most secure BOC handle available. Since the handle does not have any Velcro, it does not need routine maintenance like a pullout. The main bridle has zero exposure, and all cover flaps are designed to withstand wind from any direction without opening. Both our soft reserve handle and cutaway handle include anti-twist inserts to keep them from folding under the main lift webbing, so they will always be well presented for use. Many skydivers consider Mirage to be the most freefly friendly rig on the market.
- Can I get the same backpad on my Mirage G3 that is offered on the Mirage G4.1?
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Yes but it is a pay upgrade on the G3 and comes standard on the G4 at no extra cost. If you select the deluxe backpad option on the G3 you will receive a G4 backpad with the spacer foam and 1/2 inch padding under the spacer foam that runs up and over your shoulders as well. It truly is like wearing a pillow on your back.
- What's the difference between the G3 and G4?
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There are a number of significant changes that went into the G4. However, the underlying technology and safety features of the G3 remain unchanged. Three changes are obvious. First, the container has a new, streamlined profile for improved aerodynamics. Second, the G4 comes standard with a specially padded backpad for better comfort on the ride to altitude. Third, the reserve pin cover flap has been downsized, which allows much easier pin checks while still staying closed at all wind angles. Other changes are beneath the surface. The reserve uses a new Parapak molar freebag for durability and ease of packing. The RSL system takes advantage of the new floating yoke design to simplify lanyard routing.
- How durable is the padded back pad on the Mirage G4?
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Our sponsored athletes in the field have made well over 1000 jumps on their Mirage containers and they are not showing any signs of premature wear. The spacer foam covering material we chose is the same material most manufacturers are using and it has proven extremely durable. There is no reason that the Mirage G4.1 back pad covering will not last as long as the rest of the container.
- What's the difference between the G4.0 and G4.1?
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Mirage Systems released the Mirage G4.0 in July 2002. This was a fresh new shape and added features in comfort. However, riggers found the G4.0 difficult to pack without wrinkling. In January 2003, Mirage Systems released the Mirage G4.1. The Mirage G4.1 incoporates a slightly different, sleeker shape than the G4.0. The new shape accommodates main canopy down sizing much better and packs easily without wrinkles. Improvements are always in the works thanks to customer feedback.
- How durable is the G4 standard elastic lumbar support? Doesn't elastic wear out?
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Elastic does wear out. Mirage Systems has done extensive research to find an elastic blend that is both durable and provides stretch. Max Cohn of Generation Freefly probably puts our container through more rigorous jumps than anyone else. Max has made well over 1000 jumps on his Mirage G4's and they are not showing any signs a premature wear. We had thought that the elastic lumbar support would last approximately 300-400 jumps. Max's long-term durability tests have far surpassed our estimates. The elastic lumbar supports are easily replaceable. Replacement elastic bands will will be replaced free of charge for the life of your container by Mirage Systems.
- Why did Mirage Systems switch to a molar free bag on the Mirage G4?
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On the previous Mirage harness/container models the common request from riggers was to make closing the reserve container easier and more aesthetically pleasing. There were two factors that contributed to riggers problems. Riggers were more familiar with packing a molar free bag and the inexperience packing a Mirage left too much reserve canopy volume in the middle. The molar free bag's design addresses both issues. It is also made of Para-pak so it can more easily absorb rough handling such as vigorous use of packing paddles. See the Mirage G4.1 on-line manual for more information on packing the reserve.
- I am a free flyer. Does the G4 have any free flyer specific features?
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The Mirage G4 is very freefly friendly. It incorporates all the freefly features of the G3, and it also brings a rounder, more aerodynamic profile. Furthermore, the reserve pin cover flap has been reshaped for easer pin checks, while still maintaining excellent flap retention. Take the product tour of our containers to learn just how exceptionally freefly friendly our rigs are.
- What deployment systems are available on the RTS?
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The RTS comes standard with traditional Bottom-of-Container (BOC) hand deployed 36ヤ F1-11 main PC. We use the large diameter because a training rig typically carries heavier mains, and students prefer positive openings. The RTS can optionally be configured for a main ripcord mounted either on the BOC pouch opening or on the hip. The main ripcord is reusable and disposable and uses a length of plastic tubing for the handle, just like the throw-out PC. For added security during AFF, Mirage Systems offers the モbreakaway BOCヤ pouch. This system adds a loop handle at the bottom of the rig on the reserve side. This handle both モunzipsヤ the BOC pouch, releasing the contents, and also pulls the main ripcord, if that system is in use. Static line deployment is also available in direct bag format, configured for the specific jump aircraft.
Harnesses
- Do I need regular three rings, or can I get the mini-rings?
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Both work fine under normal circumstances. The tolerances are tighter with mini-rings, however, and if you use mini-risers too, we recommend changing them often. The most efficient set-up is the large (aka standard) ring on Type 8 (large) risers. Second most efficient set-up is a mini ring on Type 17 (mini) risers. The least efficient is the mini rings on large Type 8 risers. You can't get big rings on mini-risers. See the Owner's Manual for more info on this subject.
- Are hip rings or chest rings worth the extra money?
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Our Unisyn chest ring harness provides flexibility at both the hips and the chest, and offers several improvements over our standard and hip ring harnesses. In particular, the Unisyn provides padded stabilizers at the hip and comfort pads under all rings. The design of the Unisyn's lower rings is the same on the hip ring harness design allowing better articulation at the hip but the hip and chest rings provide better fit over the shoulder as well.
The Unisyn, released in August, 2001, is the most sophisticated harness on the market.
- I have seen that other manufacturers have the stabilizers (aka laterals) "cut-into" the back pad. Can I get this on my Mirage G3?
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Yes, the inset stabilizers are available but only with the Unisyn or hip ring only harness. It is a pay option on the G3 but comes included in the cost of a G4 if specified.
- Can I get the elastic lumbar on my Mirage G3, like that found on the Mirage G4?
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No, The elastic lumbar support is only available on the Mirage G4.
- Can I get the Fancy Pants elastic leg strap retention on my Mirage?
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No, we no longer offer the 2" thick elastic fancy pants option on any of our rigs. We do equip our rigs standard with the "butt bungee" used to help hold the leg pads in position at no extra charge. We also offer a tab to loop the bungee through directly under the main container as well if the bungee just between the legs isn't doing the trick. You won't have to ask for it directly, it comes standard on every container.
- Are ring harnesses available on the RTS?
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Typically we dont equip the RTS with ring harnesses. It is available with a standard, non-articulating harness or an adjustable harness.
Appearance
- Can I get the colors I want?
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You can get most colors if you are willing to wait for our custom delivery time. Some of our larger dealers stock our product, and we usually have some available ourselves, so you can get a rig quickly if you are willing to compromise on colors. We do not offer every color, and we don't do rigs with any fabric from any source but our usual suppliers. We want your rig to last and we can only be sure with a certified fabric source. Take a look at our color chart and interactive color picker for more details.
Colors do tend to vary from batch to batch so we do not guarantee the colors of our fabric under our warranty. Binding tapes, embroidery thread and cordura colors often do not match identically either and we do not guarantee that they will match exactly. Colors on our color picker are just simply used as an example and they do not always match identically so we do not guarantee an exact match with the online color selections available.
- Can I have a custom logo on my container? How about Mirage logos?
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Yes, Mirage Systems does custom logos with our in house embroidery department. If you already have an embroidery file, our machine can read .dst embroidery file format. If you have your logo on an image such as a JPG, we can generate the digital embroidery file from that for an extra charge. This charge varies by the complexity of the logo. The actual embroidery price (the charge to stitch the pattern on your rig) is available on our price list. Mirage Systems corporate logos can be added anywhere on a custom rig free of charge. Just be sure to specify logos at time of order. Every rig has "MIRAGE" embroidered on the #1 flap (yoke).
- Can I get the RTS customized with my DZ logo?
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Yes, Mirage Systems does custom logos with our in house embroidery department. If you already have an embroidery file, our machine can read .dst embroidery file format. If you have your logo on an image such as a JPG, we can generate the digital embroidery file from that for an extra charge. This charge varies by the complexity of the logo. The actual embroidery price (the charge to stitch the pattern on your rig) is available on our price list. Mirage Systems corporate logos can be added anywhere on a custom rig free of charge. Just be sure to specify logos at time of order. Every rig has "RTS" embroidered on the #1 flap (yoke), and at least one sidewall.
Sizing
- How does the sizing work on a Mirage container?
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Mirage Systems has standardized our sizing chart for all our products. This makes it easier for all parties involved. A Mirage G1, G2, G3, G4, and the RTS all use the same container size M number (eg. M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, etc.). Each size is designed to hold a compatible pair of canopies (main and reserve). Custom sizing is generally not available. Check our container sizing guide for more information on the sizing of our containers.
- I'm only 5'4" tall, and I'm really sick of rigs that hang low over my butt. Does Mirage make a rig that's going to fit my small torso size?
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Yes, if the canopies you want to jump aren't too big. We make a version called the S, which are several inches shorter than the standard version of the same pack volume. We make up the extra space by going thicker, which is why we can only do it for smaller canopies, or we end up getting too thick. The largest S rig, the M2S, handles a 150 square foot ZP canopy like the PD Sabre 2 just fine. It will also hold a PD 143R nicely. We do not recommend larger canopies than that for that rig. Because this rig is aimed at smaller people, we've also narrowed the yoke of the rig (width of the neck) as well as taking in the angle of the shoulder straps where they meet the yoke. People of small stature are very pleased with the resulting fit. This rig is NOT intended for use by taller jumpers! The harness geometry will make it quite uncomfortable for those folks.
- I'm getting a Sabre-150, but I want a really small rig. Can I get an M0 or even an MT?
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You can get one, but it won't be right. A rig that is too small for the canopies being put in it will end up big anyway (canopies are only so compressible) and will look much worse than a larger container would have with those same canopies in it. It's like wearing clothes two sizes too small; it doesn't make you look skinny! Furthermore, rigs don't function as well when they are overstuffed: packing is frustrating, pin tension can be high, loop length is off, bag material can protrude, etc. There is no free lunch in this department. If you want a small rig, you have to get small canopies. But (and this is the big one) if you get small canopies you have to land them. Don't fool around with your safety trying to look cool. Tiny rigs aren't cool, walking without crutches is cool. Visit the sizing guide for more detailed info.
- I've had my Mirage for a while, and want to put a smaller main in it. How small can I go?
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Good question, and a common one too. Generally you can drop two sizes from the original configuration without too much problem. What happens when you undersize the main is that tension on the main pin becomes too light, and increases the chance of a premature release. This is a very bad situation, and is not worth risking at all. In general, you need to use common sense in judging whether the new canopy will fill out the container properly. Different canopy manufacturing techniques, canopy configurations and local conditions can all affect pack volume. When in doubt, ask a local rigger or instructor who can see your situation first hand.
- How do I size my container with a cross braced canopy?
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When determining pack volume for cross braced canopies, a good approach is to use the pack volume of a standard construction main that is about 25% larger in area (eg. a 107 cross brace packs like a 135 standard construction canopy). Don't pay too much attention to published pack volume numbers, they are inherently inaccurate and real-world conditions cause actual pack volumes to vary greatly. Look at the feedback that other customers have left on our container sizing guide here to get a real-world perspective of canopy fits.
Delivery
- What is the current delivery time?
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Call the office for current delivery time estimates.
- Can I get a rush order through?
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Rush orders are available. Typically rush orders are not necessary, as we strive to keep our delivery times very low. However, rush options are available. Click here to view our rush options.
Maintenance
- My Mirage reserve is sticking up much more then the pictures I've seen, and when I press on it, I can feel the pilot chute spring compress. Is that right?
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No, you need a repack. Your reserve closing loop is too long and should be adjusted to spec by the rigger. This is particularly common when using a new closing loop, which may stretch a bit during the first week or two of being packed. Do not think that just because it's closed it's OK; the pilot chute will launch best when fully compressed, and a protruding reserve will knock into more things while you're moving around than a flat reserve. What's more, the rig will look much better. Get it fixed.
- I've had my Mirage for a while and want the factory to look it over and fix anything that needs fixing. Can I do that?
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Yes, we of course do repair work. However, be aware that most riggers in the field do a fine job of making minor repairs to rigs, and will pass anything big on to us anyway. The best idea is to take it to your local rigger first, then call us if the rigger recommends it, or you are not happy with your rigger's service. You are likely to save money, effort and rig downtime that way.
Upgrades
- Can I upgrade my G1 with Velcro riser covers to tuck tabs?
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No, G1 containers cannot be retrofitted with tuck tabs.
- Can I upgrade my current Mirage to a Unisyn chest and hip ring harness?
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No, the Unisyn harness is a complex design and may not be retrofitted to an existing rig.
- Does Mirage Systems have a trade in program?
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No, we do not offer a trade in program for used gear.
Used Gear
- I'm looking at buying a used Mirage. It's in nice shape but doesn't fit me too well. Is there anything you can do to make the harness smaller (bigger)?
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Yes, there's a lot we can do. We are the best choice to do harness work, although Master Riggers are qualified to do this work as well. Whether it will be economically feasible is another question. There are many different kinds of harness adjustments, each with a different cost. For a price on your specific needs, please call us up or email tech support. We want to be sure every Mirage fits its owner properly.
- Does Mirage Systems sell used gear?
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Yes, Mirage Systems does on occasion sell used containers that have been used as demo equipment. Email the sales department for current selections.