APEKS US4 vs DS4 for deco / stage

[DanSEA]

Hi,
I am looking at two APEKS 1st stages for my 100% cylinder and would appreciate some feedback:
- DS4 (environmentally sealed), somewhat compact
- US4 (not sealed), lighter / a bit more compact than the DS4

^^ Use only in warm water!

Since since / weight is a bit of concern (I travel hand carry only and bringing 4 1st stages does not help), I wonder if there is any reason to NOT take the lighter US4. Please no discussion why APEKS - my other regs are all APEKS and I want to stick with them.

Thank you for your feedback.

 

[tbone1004]

as long as you are diligent about rinsing the inside of the cap, there is no reason not to use the us4. it's an identical regulator other than the enviro seal

 

[DepthCharge]

I've used the US4's for years. As tbone said, just be sure to rinse. I use a 20 cc syringe to flush them out.
Later,
John

 

[jadairiii]

I think the weight difference is negligible along with them being just as compact. I like the sealed DS4. And I travel with 2 DST's for back gas and 3 DS4's for deco, internationally.

And having just rebuilt all of my Apex's after over 2 years, they were spotless inside.

 

[DanSEA]

I travel with 2 DST's for back gas and 3 DS4's for deco, internationally.

.. and trust you reached business class hand-carry allowance with this alone ;-)
Jokes beside - thanks for the feedback. Price is not a concern but rather dimension / weight. Although I am really fuzzy about washing my gear, I also wonder if I shall mix too much (same as you, I have 2 DST, one DS4) already.

 

[DevonDiver]

I like those little US4 stages. All you need for tropical tech.

Can get generic copies in Asia... A fraction of the price, seemingly quite good... and use regular Apeks service kits.

 

[Darghu]

Can get generic copies in Asia... A fraction of the price, seemingly quite good... and use regular Apeks service kits.

Can you tell more about that?

 

[tbone1004]

Can you tell more about that?

basically if it looks like an apeks regulator, it is a laser copy of one and can in general use their parts kits. That said with those you usually have to DIY service since most shops won't touch them

 

[jadairiii]

.. and trust you reached business class hand-carry allowance with this alone ;-)

My dry suit and regulators go in a big Pelican case and I check it. Carry on my light heads, drives TSA crazy!

 

[Centrals]

Replaced the US4 with DST many yrs ago. The turret makes the routing of the hose slightly better, less stress on my lower gum.