Button gauge SPG

[MB NZ]

I know button gauges are not cool and using one will result in certain death, but I like them as they make a neat pony package. The glass popped off my current one yesterday after around 7 years of usage. Interestingly, it still functioned. Anyway, I want another and want to get the best available. Came across the one in the photo. It looks pretty robust. Any thoughts or alternative recommendations?

 

[tursiops]

i prefer this kind.

It is easier to read. I've used on on my pony and one on my first stage (opposite my MH8A transmitter) for many years. Available lots of places.

 

[tmassey]

Anyway, I want another and want to get the best available.

Wow is that expensive!

For me, the first place I always go is Dive Gear Express. They don’t carry everything, but what they do carry is usually exactly what you want to buy. If they have it, I’m pretty likely to buy it from there.

Here is the generic one they carry. It’s all of $17.

Mini-SPG { 1 in | 2.5 cm } Face

This Mini-SPG is larger than most and easier to read.

www.divegearexpress.com

That’s the one I would buy. But if you insist on having a name brand, here’s a Dive Rite. $30.

Dive Rite Button SPG with Logo Face, PSI and BAR Combo

This miniature submersible pressure gauge (aka mini-spg, pony gauge, button gauge) screws directly into the standard high pressure 7/16-inch port of the regulator first stage and does not require a hose or spool.

www.divegearexpress.com

 

[uncfnp]

I don’t know your options in NZ but we have been using the button gauges from DGE linked above and have no complaints.

 

[Bigbella]

I have had a number of those "uncool" button gauges over the years, from bargain basement to pricier alternatives and they're all weirdly prone to accidental damage from mishandling, a bit like transmitters in that respect, and that aforementioned threat of "certain death"; but in terms of longevity, the Poseidon versions -- currently cheaper than that Oceanic model -- have been a trooper after close to a decade of heavy use on ponies, and are available in metric or imperial versions . . .

 

[MB NZ]

i prefer this kind.
View attachment 888215
It is easier to read. I've used on on my pony and one on my first stage (opposite my MH8A transmitter) for many years. Available lots of places.

That's the one I had, although in chrome rather than technical black. If there isn't a better alternative, I'd happily buy another.

 

[MB NZ]

Wow is that expensive!

For me, the first place I always go is Dive Gear Express. They don’t carry everything, but what they do carry is usually exactly what you want to buy. If they have it, I’m pretty likely to buy it from there.

Here is the generic one they carry. It’s all of $17.

Mini-SPG { 1 in | 2.5 cm } Face

This Mini-SPG is larger than most and easier to read.

www.divegearexpress.com

That’s the one I would buy. But if you insist on having a name brand, here’s a Dive Rite. $30.

Dive Rite Button SPG with Logo Face, PSI and BAR Combo

This miniature submersible pressure gauge (aka mini-spg, pony gauge, button gauge) screws directly into the standard high pressure 7/16-inch port of the regulator first stage and does not require a hose or spool.

www.divegearexpress.com

Don't forget it's NZ pesos rather than US$, but yes everything is expensive here. Small market at the end of the supply change.

I'm not a brand name guy, but thought a brand name might buy me a little more robustness in this case. That said, I'm not convinced the "Oceanic" button gauge is really Oceanic.

 

[MB NZ]

I

I have had a number of those "uncool" button gauges over the years, from bargain basement to pricier alternatives and they're all weirdly prone to accidental damage from mishandling, a bit like transmitters in that respect, and that aforementioned threat of "certain death"; but in terms of longevity, the Poseidon versions -- currently cheaper than that Oceanic model -- have been a trooper after close to a decade of heavy use on ponies, and are available in metric or imperial versions . . .

I have the high pressure port/button gauge facing downwards towards the cylinder neck which provides some protection.

I have a feeling that the glass just fell out rather than being smashed out. It didn't blow off as the gauge still worked without the glass.

 

[mr_v]

Folks, no need to pay more than $20 for a button SPG. Check out Piranha:

Pony Bottle Gauges Piranha Dive Shop |

www.piranhadivemfg.com

Now, I am moving away from the button gauges for multiple reasons related to my setup and diving preferences, but Piranha stuff is solid and that's what I've been using. Zero failures.

 

[Brett Hatch]

I have a bottle that used to be used as a pony, and is now used as emergency O2 supply. The reg on it has the mini SPG from DiveGearExpress linked above, and I have zero complaints about it. I can easily tell whether the tank is "pretty full" or "not full enough", and that's all I use it for.