U.S. Navy Diving Manual 1958

The 1958 U.S. Navy Diving Manual – A Complete Guide

The U.S. Navy Diving Manual (1958 Edition), known as NAVSHIPS 250-538, is a significant historical document that played a key role in shaping modern diving techniques. It provides in-depth technical knowledge about surface-supplied diving, self-contained diving (SCUBA), decompression tables, and emergency procedures.

In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the 1958 U.S. Navy Diving Manual, including its structure, importance, availability, and how it compares to modern editions.

1. Overview of the 1958 U.S. Navy Diving Manual

The 1958 edition of the U.S. Navy Diving Manual was an essential resource for military divers, outlining standard procedures and technical requirements. At the time, diving technology was evolving, and this manual reflected the latest advancements in SCUBA and surface-supplied diving systems.

This edition was widely used by the U.S. Navy’s Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs), the predecessors of today’s Navy SEALs. It also introduced improved decompression tables, which were critical for safer underwater operations.

2. Key Sections of the Manual

The 1958 U.S. Navy Diving Manual is divided into four primary sections, each covering an important aspect of diving.

2.1 General Principles of Diving

This section covers the physics of diving, including:

The effects of pressure on the human body.
The behavior of gases underwater.
The dangers of nitrogen narcosis and oxygen toxicity.

Understanding these concepts was crucial for divers to operate safely in deep-sea environments.

2.2 Surface-Supplied Diving Procedures

At the time, most military and commercial divers relied on surface-supplied diving helmets, like the Mark V. This section explains:

The setup and maintenance of surface-supplied diving systems.
Emergency procedures for air supply failures.
The importance of helmet communication systems.

2.3 Self-Contained Diving (SCUBA)

During the 1950s, SCUBA technology was gaining popularity. This section introduced:

The Aqua-Lung, an early SCUBA system adopted by the Navy.
Proper use, maintenance, and emergency procedures for SCUBA divers.
The benefits and risks of closed-circuit and open-circuit systems.

2.4 Diving Accessories and Emergency Procedures

The final section provides guidelines on:

Diving suits, fins, masks, and knives.
Emergency decompression techniques.
The importance of dive planning and safety protocols.

3. Why the 1958 Edition is Historically Significant

The 1958 manual was a turning point in naval diving. It marked the transition from traditional surface-supplied diving to the more versatile SCUBA systems used today.

Additionally, this edition included:

The 1957 decompression tables, which set new standards for preventing decompression sickness.
Research on human endurance at depth, helping pave the way for modern mixed-gas diving techniques.
New safety measures to address barotrauma, nitrogen narcosis, and oxygen toxicity.

Because of these innovations, the manual remains a valuable reference for historical diving enthusiasts and researchers.

4. Availability and Where to Find the 1958 Manual

Since this edition was distributed only to military personnel, original copies are rare and highly collectible. However, there are several ways to find it today:

4.1 Online Marketplaces

eBay: Occasionally, vintage copies appear in auctions.
WorthPoint: Some listings provide detailed descriptions of the manual’s contents.

4.2 Diving Forums and Communities

ScubaBoard: Discussions about the manual’s historical relevance.

4.3 Alternative Resources

If you cannot find the 1958 manual, you can refer to:

The U.S. Navy Diving Manual (Revision 7), available for free online.
The 1963 and 1970 editions, which contain similar content but with updated techniques.

For official documents, visit NAVSEA (U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command).

5. How the 1958 Manual Compares to Modern Editions

Diving technology has significantly evolved since 1958. Here’s how this edition compares to modern diving manuals:

Feature	1958 Edition	Modern Edition (Rev. 7)
Decompression Tables	Based on 1957 research	Advanced mixed-gas tables
SCUBA Use	Early adoption	Standard in military diving
Diving Equipment	Mark V Helmets, Aqua-Lung	Rebreathers, Closed-Circuit
Emergency Procedures	Basic guidelines	Highly advanced rescue protocols

Although the 1958 edition is outdated for practical use, it remains an important historical document for understanding the evolution of diving techniques.

6. Conclusion

The 1958 U.S. Navy Diving Manual was a groundbreaking resource, shaping the future of military and commercial diving. With its detailed procedures, technical guidelines, and historical significance, it remains a sought-after collector’s item.

If you are a vintage diving enthusiast, historian, or collector, this manual offers valuable insights into mid-century diving practices. Whether you find an original copy or explore modern editions, this resource remains an essential piece of diving history.