Fixed v Swivel 1st stage

[PaulG]

As a fairly newbie diver, I have been accumulating as much info re different regs etc from both LDS and Online plus reading most of the posts on this board (as much as eyes would allow)

However, I would like some input on peoples opinions re the difference between swivel and fixed first stages.

Are there advantages/disadvantages to either of these for recreational diving (not expecting to get into tech diving for a while yet)

Although based in UK, expect most diving to be done in warmer climates for now.

Is the swivel an invention for the sake of it or are there good reasons for it.

Under which circumstances is it better/worse or does it mostly not matter either way

 

[Tibbs]

Swivels aren't really necessary, if the hose routing is right to begin with. I have two swivel 1st stages (Apeks DSTs), but I now regret buying them instead of the non-swivel DS4. The swivel requires another O Ring, which is another one to go wrong at the most inopportune moment. I had to send one of my DSTs back to Apeks because it was leaking out of the swivel, so it does happen.

I know people who like the routing of the TX100 first stage and also the DS4. The Scubapro Mk16 seems quite popular around me, but my buddies have found they fall out of tune regularly.

The important thing really is to make sure that the routing works for whatever setup you have.

Oh, and buy Apeks!

Chris

 

[SDAnderson]

The purpose of the swivel is to allow you to adjust the position of the regulator, thus minimizing stress on the swages and maximizing hose streamlining and comfort.

Some divers don't like the swivel because of concerns that the benefits are outweighed by the possibility of a failure in the swivel. This sub-set of the sub-aqua realm has it's origins in a radical Hogarthian philosophy based primarily upon cave diving requirements - they have occasional problems with collisions with overhead structures, especially at speed while being towed by scooters. The same concerns may apply to wreck penetrators, although they won't have the speed issues.

As far as open water divers go, I've had a few first stage regulators fail over the years, including both swivel and non-swivel varieties. I've yet to have one fail at the swivel. The lesson I've learned is that redundancy will save you from disaster if a regulator fails - for whatever reason. Personally, I decided that I really didn't need the swivel and have relegated those regulators to backup or stage roles.

Steven