Air 2 versus Conventional Octopus?

[squidster]

Is it wise to replace safe second with an air 2 bcd inflator?

 

[TSandM]

There are many arguments for and against the Air 2. You can do a search and pull up any number of heated arguments about it.

My only observation is that, if you are going to use an Air 2, make sure you have a long (36 or 40 inch) hose on your primary regulator, because you are going to donate your primary to an OOA diver, and doing that with a 24 inch hose is a major pain.

 

[Bruce3]

you should practice using one, or atleast try one out in a controlled enviroment before deciding. i thought i wanted one until i used my buddy's, something about it rubbed me wrong but you may like it.

 

[Packhorse]

If you are a rec diver who is good with your gas supply and equipment service and dive with like minded buddys then yes.
If on the other hand you dive tech or frequently run low or OOA or dive with buddys that do then no.
Either way practice with what you got.
I got a SS1 for my singles rig. never had to use it and do what I can before hand to avoid using it.

 

[divingjd]

It's been discussed repeatedly on the board at some length. It seems to pop up every week or two. Just search the forums for "AIR2" and you will find the discussions. I use one and like it, but there are lots of points of view. It also depends on what kind of diving you are going to do.

 

[spectrum]

This post can be found in one such thread:
http://www.scubaboard.com/showpost.php?p=1169848&postcount=3

Pete

 

[Hoosier]

Once again....

 

[nwdiver2]

Put one on and keep your regular octo, try it, practice with it; if you like it and can safely use it go with it if you don't like it drop it. Others’ opinions won't help you or your buddy at 90 ft when the need arises.

 

[BHB ScubaTroll]

There are many arguments for and against the Air 2. You can do a search and pull up any number of heated arguments about it.

My only observation is that, if you are going to use an Air 2, make sure you have a long (36 or 40 inch) hose on your primary regulator, because you are going to donate your primary to an OOA diver, and doing that with a 24 inch hose is a major pain.

Excellent advice!!!

I dive Air2 on my BC and Octo on my bp. The long hose is much easier to donate when using an Air2 system.

 

[Jarrett]

Put one on and keep your regular octo, try it, practice with it; if you like it and can safely use it go with it if you don't like it drop it. Others’ opinions won't help you or your buddy at 90 ft when the need arises.

That pretty much sums it up right there.

I prefer the Atomic B2/SS1 setup. Works well together, mo bettah than mix and matching.