AL doubles?

[CAPTAIN SINBAD]

Just wondering how many of you guys dive with AL-doubles? How do you feel about them? I am estimating switching from steel 100's to Luxfer AL-80s should cause you to put 8 more lbs of lead approximately. Is that in the right ball-park?

Thanks.

 

[PfcAJ]

I dive them from time to time. They're good for 170 and shallower stuff. Much than that and I want something bigger.

 

[DeepSeaExplorer]

Double AL80s make a great rig for ocean diving. With a steel plate, no need for any weight with a 3mm suit. With a dry suit, I use the 11lb V-weight.

 

[Pullmyfinger]

I have 4 sets of aluminum 80's.
In Japan when I was diving dry the majority of the time, I would use 11 lb. V-weights or the Halcyon soft "v-weight" pouch.

Now I'm on Guam and don't need any weight when diving wet.

I have aluminum 80's because they are always available, and I acquired them over time. However, I have always wanted LP 85 doubles. I feel they are a better overall tank.
Although on Guam, the 80s are ideal.

I just missed out on a used set of 85s that were up for sale locally....I would still like to get my hands on some. They would be great for when I go back to Japan.

 

[DevonDiver]

Aluminium is all you're likely to see in many parts of SE Asia, and other tropical locations. No problems diving them. With a 3mm wetsuit and a AL backplate, I don't need any extra weight. Can move up to AL100s for deeper dives, or just carry some stages for more bottom time.

 

[halocline]

I use them in MX caves, I like them just fine. You don't see a lot of steel tanks down there.

I don't particularly like AL80s as single tanks, so I was pleasantly surprised when I first used AL80 doubles. Nice stable trim and not too bad on land.

 

[Scott]

I've used them in waters were I can get by with a 3mm or drysuit with light garments with no additional weight, which is nice.

 

[CAPTAIN SINBAD]

Trying to understand those of you who are getting by without using weights. AL-80 is 4+ when empty so you should have around 8 lbs of positive buoyancy to neutralize.

 

[Scott]

Thing to remember is, at least me anyway, there is the reserve gas, plus a deco bottle, maybe a canister light, plus some other incidentals.

 

[teknitroxdiver]

Thing to remember is, at least me anyway, there is the reserve gas, plus a deco bottle.

What happens when you have to actually use that reserve gas someday?