I really like the inflator they use, which can be hooked up to an LP hose if you like, but has a large flange around the nipple that makes it easy to seal around it with cold, numb lips...
Is use of a BC/drysuit inflator hose reserved for the surface only or is there a technique to use it at depth without the risk of being dragging to the surface? I don't have an oral inflation tube on mine but haven't had much trouble inflating it on the surface. I only tried it once, but I could blow air into it by wrapping my face with bottom almost like a handkerchief.
I did try a regular shop air nozzle with a BC QD nipple for filling lots of air bags on one project. I found it more trouble than just using the second stage though. Surface supplied divers have it easy; they just call for air blown out their pneumo hose.
Another question, do most people use them to hang off for decom stops or surface signaling? Seems like too much trouble to deploy unless I am drifting fast enough to seriously require help or maybe because I would take too much ribbing for expecting them to pull anchor and recover my sorry butt. I guess deploying is not even the issue; I don't enjoy rolling the SMB and string back up.