A Scuba Diving Regulator
Thursday, February 26th, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed
Whether you’re new to scuba diving or a diving nut, you want to be sure the scuba regulator you have is top notch. There are differences in any scuba regulator and tons to consider such as warm water regulators, cold-water models, and ones that will work for any dive. Let’s look at what’s new, what are musts for diving regulators, and what’s a surprising alternative.
Latest in Regulators
The technologically advanced carbon fiber regulator that was lightweight was introduced in the year 2008. It was compact, yet was able to perform. The second stage case came in sixty five percent lighter than its metal cousins.
The Sherwood Gemini model became a star in the alternate inflator category and scored points with its ease for its breathing features and well designed and placed controls. Beyond the weight-it’s light, nitrox-ready, and rated “excellent” at moderate breathing rates at both 132 and 165 feet.
Must in Dive Regulators
Durability was what most divers want when it comes to regulators. Like the Sherwood Oasis, a good warm-water regulator, models were tested for durability, service hours, annual servicing, corrosion issues, and peak performance. With the advancement of diving regulators, especially since 2005, most were durable, and like any good piece of equipment, you should follow the manufacturer’s recommended care procedures to ensure your model lasts.
Another Sherwood model, the Blizzard, good for cold-water dives and its ability to keep the moisture and icing out, was only part of this regulator’s features. Exclusive to this model, a bubble deflector exhaust tee reduced the bubble size and performed great for line of vision.
The SR1 by Sherwood boasts a 360-degree swivel that works with both a yoke and DIN attachment. Good for all-weather diving, we were awed at the two high-pressure ports and five low-pressure ports. A top pick for 2008, this scuba regulator had it all, but the 360 degree swivel was impressive and to us-a must.
An Alternative in Regulators
The inflation regulator is extremely functional and is integrated into the power inflator. This replaces the traditional octopus hose. The small housings are geared to keep the regulators ergonomically correct. Because of this, it was tough to build. However, with today’s technology, they have built some pretty good ones. In the near future, you can expect to see more advancements in dive regulators.
What to Expect
We looked at lots of models of dive regulators and we connected most with the Sherwood products, perhaps because they’ve been at it a while. In any event, a regulator is key to your aqua-lung when diving, so be sure to take the time to talk and ask a lot of questions before you commit to buy. Prices can range from a low $200 to highs at $600 or more. Depending on how serious you are in your scuba diving, your sports store should be able to tell you which ones will perform well for you.
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