The Arvin stunt is the best-documented episode of Schmoll’s career and the clearest surviving demonstration of his technical ability. This chapter covers the concept, the harness he built for it, its engineering significance, how the jump was executed, and what his contribution amounted to.
In this section
- 5.1 The ConceptSchmoll’s best-documented technical work supported one of the most extraordinary parachuting stunts of the 1960s.
- 5.2 Schmoll’s HarnessThe stunt created an unusual equipment problem: Pack needed a harness that could accept a parachute connection made under freefall conditions rather than a conventional parachute assembly secured…
- 5.3 Technical SignificanceThe harness demonstrates more about Schmoll’s capabilities than a simple description of him as a parachute sewer or repair technician would convey.
- 5.4 Execution of the JumpCameron’s account places the actual stunt at Arvin, California, using Schaefer’s Cessna 206, piloted by Harry Hanes.
- 5.5 Schmoll’s Role in the OutcomePack’s physical ability and composure, Allen’s freefall rendezvous and equipment transfer, the camera jumpers, aircraft crew, and production staff all contributed to the stunt’s success.