Best Surface Marker (safety sausage)

[Seasicktoo]

Hello, We have never needed to dive with surface markers in case we get lost from the boat. Headed to RA4 in Feb and the resort is requiring these to dive. Any thoughts

Thanks

 

[Still Kicking]

Whatever you decide, also carry a light. An active light source is 10x more visible than an SMB, though it does need batteries.​

 

[Scared Silly]

We have several made by Halcyon. Both their smaller 3' and big 4.5'. I like them because the material if beefier than most all others. Also they are closed circuit so air does not leak out. But that means orally inflating them (or depending on the model one can also use the LP hose). They also have an OPV so they can be deployed at depth and not worry about over pressure. If I were to recommend one it would be their thin 6' DAM (aka SMB). If you get one also get a small spool that holds 30'-40' of line for deployment at depth while doing a safety stop.

 

[NothingClever]

@Seasicktoo

I use a DSMB almost every single dive. That doesn’t make me an expert by any stretch of the imagination but I’ll humbly offer my observations.

Although a 1m DSMB is convenient to carry, I don’t think I’ve dived mine but two times. It’s definitely good for training in flat waters.

The 2m DSMB ensures I can be seen despite wave troughs of an open water environment.

I attach a small strobe to the end of it in the event visibility becomes limited. This is in addition to the two lights I already carry on my shoulder straps.

Remember to have more line than the depth you intend to shoot from to account for slope caused by the differential in the current you’re at and the current on top. The rule of thumb I use is 1.5 times my intended shooting depth. So, if I want to shoot from 20m, I should dive with 30m of line.

Good luck on your trip and let us know how you get along.

Happy New Year!

 

[Johnoly]

Any thoughts

Where will you practice with it before your trip??

 

[inquis]

A 3-4 ft is good for training, but if you get separated, you'll be glad you had a 6 ft. Best value I've found:

6ft / 72" inch Orange Both Sides SMB "Flapper / Duck Valve bottom"

6 Feet Length 6" X 72" 210 Denier with a urethane backing Approximately 40+lbs of lifting capacity Small compact design for easy storage with bungee to hold it rolled up or use the valcron strapped that holds it rolled up! Our smb has a oral / Bc hose inflator at the bottom or use a Bc hose to...

www.piranhadivemfg.com

 

[MAKO Spearguns]

You might take a look at this package we offer.

Mako 45” Surface Marker Buoy With Reel Pocket

Dive into adventure with confidence using the MAKO 45" surface marker buoy! This fantastic, closed-circuit float ensures you're always visible and safe underwater. Crafted with durable 400 Denier polyurethane-coated nylon and featuring a reel pocket, metal D-ring, nylon D-ring, and SOLAS...

makospearguns.com

 

[gschaut]

Without naming brands: 6' DSMB, WITH both visual reflective stripes AND metal foil patch (radar reflector).

 

[Tracy]

You asked for best and didn't name a price.
My favorite SMB is the Halcyon 6' super slim

It is of good quality and requires very little air due to being a small diameter. It is also a damned expensive SMB.

 

[newman_diver]

I have a couple sub gravity ones, multiple inflation options, hot pink and reflective strip. Roll up small enough to fit in my Drysuit pocket.