My error. I didn't use the actual PADI table, I used the Dive Planner app on my Android phone. When I installed the app, I checked that it gives the same PGs as the PADI table for the first dive in a series. But apparently the app is more conservative than the PADI table WRT surface time credit, and I hadn't checked that. You were right, I was wrong
But the simulations still hold, though, after I double-checked them. I used Suunto Dive Planner v. 1.0.0.3, bundled with the Suunto Dive Manager v3; Suunto's RBGM algorithm with deep stops. So part of my argument stands: That according to at least one deco model, the OP was closer to the NDL than I'm generally comfortable with.
Actually you were right.
Refer to the image in prior post and go down to the bottom of the table where you find H as the pressure group after surface interval. It is easy to confirm that these letters are the ending pressure groups - simply check what group you are in after a 0:00 surface interval. Using the top values would drop you two pressure groups for popping your head out.
This is why PADI no longer teaches tables. Even experienced-concerned-active divers such as those posting on scubaboard get it wrong. Instructors can spend all of their classroom time on tables without teaching anything else - and students will still get it wrong! End result students with headaches who are so discouraged that they cannot take in any of the other (also important) information. IMNSHO - longer classes are needed so that students can learn more deco theory and develop a feel for NDLs while also learning remaining theory, physical skills and drilling emergency procedures. Good luck selling that!
This is also why boat ops and DMs treat diver as dependents - because most are.