Mk2 ??

[NorthWoodsDiver]

Well you guys/gals talked me into a SP MK2 for my 100 O2 bottle but my question is how does that MK2 breath a bit deeper. I'm thinkin this reg would be a good inexpensive option for a 70ft deco tank of nitrox (+/- 40%) but I know some cheaper regs dont do as well at greater depths. Thanks

 

[Couv]

Hello NWD,

The MK 2 coupled with a balanced and adjustable second stage (such as a SP Balanced Adjustable if you are buying used or a G250V if you are buying new) will fit the bill for any diving at depths less than 150 feet. The money you saved on the MK 2 can now be invested in a great second stage.

c

 

[Hoosier]

I am using MK2/R190 for 50% deco bottle without any issue.

 

[Couv]

NWD,

I should have read your post more carefully, Hoosier's setup would be a much more economical option to a G250V. No reason to have a more complicated/expensive second stage for a deco bottle.

c

 

[DA Aquamaster]

I agree the Mk 2 should be good for deco down to 130 ft or so.

An R190 will perform just fine in terms of air delivery. On the other hand you spend half the dive or more on deco so it's worth it to have a nice breathing reg. I used to use Balanced Adjustables on my Mk 3 and Mk 200 deco first stages and recently switched to G250's mostly to prevent tech instuctors from pitching a fit over my "ancient" deco regs.

Either way an adjustable second stage design is a good match for the unbalanced Mk 2, Mk 3 or Mk 200 and will ensure low inhalation efforts down to the last 200-300 psi.

The metal air barrel in the G250 or current G250V helps reduce dry mouth and the all metal Balanced Adjustable is even better in that regard.

 

[Luis H]

I used to use Balanced Adjustables on my Mk 3 and Mk 200 deco first stages and recently switched to G250's mostly to prevent tech instuctors from pitching a fit over my "ancient" deco regs.

Can you really trust a Scuba tech instructor that doesn’t really understand regulators?

 

[Couv]

Luis,

As an engineer, you should know that graphite and plastic are more O2 compatible than chromed brass.



c