Peter_C
Contributor
Since mine has always been used for launching from depth to alert boats of our presence, it needs to inflate with one to one and a half breaths. Therefore I use a Halcyon 3.3' for myself, and just got my partner a 4.5' HOG, so it will fit in her pocket.talking about SMB, what size do you guys carry?
The BIG SMB's have their place and I do have a DAN 6' one, but find it is best used at the surface (Rarely do I carry it). The smaller SMB's tend to stand up better while you remain underwater. Since they are generally inflated more, that also helps them stand up straighter. The smaller SMB's launch better from a shallower depth like above 25', where a half breath, then a full breath will stand them up at the surface. Since you exhale into it, you also stay neutral until it is launched to the surface.
Having a SMB that can be inflated by mouth is nice so again you offset the buoyancy of the SMB by emptying your lungs. Using the SMB's like the DAN unit means you are typically using your octo/reg underneath it to inflate thru a duck bill. It works, but can also vent some at the surface, or at least mine does. Some SMB's can use a LP connector to inflate them, but once full you better hope is slides off the end of the SMB your it will take you right to the surface with it. Now we are back to filling with your mouth for safety...