OP
Need a flag/float - which one?
- Thread starter Marie13
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I have and really like my hard float, but it takes up significant storage space. I'd really consider one of these if space was a premium.
https://www.makospearguns.com/High-Pressure-Spearfishing-Float-p/mhpf.htm
I have used "pencil" floats ant inner tube floats, each have plusses and minuses, and fail compared to my hard float.
I personally like the "cheap ratchet reel" that can come as a package.
I tried and hated a Manta Mini for this use.
YMMV
https://www.makospearguns.com/High-Pressure-Spearfishing-Float-p/mhpf.htm
I have used "pencil" floats ant inner tube floats, each have plusses and minuses, and fail compared to my hard float.
I personally like the "cheap ratchet reel" that can come as a package.
I tried and hated a Manta Mini for this use.
YMMV
As mentioned, it is probably important to decide if space, storage and transportation are issues. For divers who travel by air, the benefits of an inflatable float are significant.
If you would like a rigid float, then this Hawaiian hard float with flag, would be a good choice. Easy to tow and the handles on the sides could help support a diver, should a problem arise on the surface.
This package deal with the hard float might be very attractive for the stated purpose
https://www.makospearguns.com/SCUBA-Divers-Surface-Float-Package-p/msdsfp.htm
If you would like a rigid float, then this Hawaiian hard float with flag, would be a good choice. Easy to tow and the handles on the sides could help support a diver, should a problem arise on the surface.
This package deal with the hard float might be very attractive for the stated purpose
https://www.makospearguns.com/SCUBA-Divers-Surface-Float-Package-p/msdsfp.htm
This was a link to my experience. I really like this float. It tows easy and stores easy.
Mako "Professional Inflatable Spearfishing Float"
It is the least durable of the floats that MAKO offers but it is still tough. I have no concerns for using this the amount I do.
Storage space was a big concern for me or I would have gone with the hard float.
If I was diving every day but still had storage issues I would use the HP MAKO float.
Any of these will probably tow great, just remember to leave slack in the line so you aren't dragging the float nose down through the water. You want the float to skim flat on top of the water.
I'm just using a dive rite safety reel with a clip to tow and it works fine.
Stay away from the styrofoam balls, pool noodles, and inner tubes if you want easy towing. The balls and noodle types can get pulled under pretty easily.
Mako was great to deal with as well.
Good luck.
Mako "Professional Inflatable Spearfishing Float"
It is the least durable of the floats that MAKO offers but it is still tough. I have no concerns for using this the amount I do.
Storage space was a big concern for me or I would have gone with the hard float.
If I was diving every day but still had storage issues I would use the HP MAKO float.
Any of these will probably tow great, just remember to leave slack in the line so you aren't dragging the float nose down through the water. You want the float to skim flat on top of the water.
I'm just using a dive rite safety reel with a clip to tow and it works fine.
Stay away from the styrofoam balls, pool noodles, and inner tubes if you want easy towing. The balls and noodle types can get pulled under pretty easily.
Mako was great to deal with as well.
Good luck.
Holy sh1t that first Mako is a real yacht! I have the second inflatable, the 15L. It's very well made and tows fine.
Would a dsmb be appropriate? I don't know your local regs but here it can be appropriate sometimes
OP
Unfortunately, no. It has to be the red/white diver down flag.
jadairiii
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Omer Master torpedo buoy. Ive used these for years, larger than the Mako, lots of places to attach a tow bridle to. Deflate it when you are done. I always retrofit mine with a zodiac inflator valve. Makes filling and deflating much easier.
Omer Master Torpedo Buoy with Removable Flag
Omer Master Torpedo Buoy with Removable Flag
Another option ...
I have two Carter 35lb DSMBs. They have a 12" square dive-flag sleeve that slips on the top. I keep one in my reg bag so it comes with me (JIC) and stays flat(ish). Personal Floats Safety Sausage Tubes
I actually bought the flags as add-ons, since the bags were used and needed replacement oral-inflate valves (salt encrustation) anyway. You could probably order just the sleeves (you'd have to call) or make up your own version.
OP
I’m looking at my options. Not sure how much I’m going to be diving these sites, so I don’t want to spent a lot of I’m not going to be using it often.
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