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Re: Light & comfortable PFD?
Posted: Thu Jul 21, 2011 6:38 pm
by Catigale
The auto inflatables need the pill cage replaced annually btw.
I had a dated catridge in one of mine, so I deployed it
Notable loud bang
It inflates fast, it's a bit startling when it puffs up around you
They stay inflated for about 4 days without intervention, then begin to soften
Re: Light & comfortable PFD?
Posted: Thu Jul 21, 2011 7:42 pm
by dlandersson
For some reason this reminds me of my wedding night.
Catigale wrote:It inflates fast, it's a bit startling when it puffs up around you
They stay inflated for about 4 days without intervention, then begin to soften
Re: Light & comfortable PFD?
Posted: Thu Jul 21, 2011 8:04 pm
by seahouse
Hey Cat!
We use the Mustang auto inflators, which use the Halkey-Roberts inflation mechanism, other brands use this same mechanism. It says on its tag that the bobbin should be replaced every 3 years for recreational use, and every year for commercial use. I'm thinking it's something you'd want to at least inspect annually, though.
Stay cool!
-Brian.
Re: Light & comfortable PFD?
Posted: Fri Jul 22, 2011 12:00 am
by Berber Boy
Just a caution from OZ. I use an inflatable all the time and after 3yrs use thought I should check the gas cylinder. To my surprise it had not even been attached
It was just sitting there in the right place in a small ziploc bag with instructions how to set it up! Felt a real idiot. Not sure how they come stateside but its sure worth checking.
Re: Light & comfortable PFD?
Posted: Fri Jul 22, 2011 3:33 am
by Catigale
They come un attached and with a yellow card with
UNARMED
In huge type.....if you miss it, it's Darwinian.....
Re: Light & comfortable PFD?
Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2011 10:44 am
by RobertB
I bought for my wife the Mustang offshore with a hydrostatic inflator.
- Offshore version has about 35 lbs bouyancy vs about 25 for less expensive versions
- Hydrostatic inflator (needs to submerge about 4 inches) is quite a bit more expensive but I figure that it beats disolving the salt tablet that holds the plunger back on the less expensive types every time I go max throttle in choppy water (times like these i keep wishing I brought my snorkling mask)
- for my wife since when she gets nervous, no one has fun
- The Mustang one is real comfortable to wear (some of the others mentioned have comfort issues)
My vest is real comfortable since is is usually sitting right next to me.
Note: Most inflatable vests have provisions to mount a strobe light - the ACR lights fit great