Pro's and cons of Aga masks

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Porscheguy

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Nova Scotia, Canda
hey, im sure some one has asked this question already, but i will ask agian, I'm a PADI rescue diver, along with my Dad, and he doesnt like the constricted feeling of diving with a mask and reg in his mouth, but he doesnt mind using a scotts air pak(same thing as an AGA mask, just for firefighters) So my question is are the AGA mask really worth there price or should he just suffer and save him a ton of money.

thanks
 
If he is feeling constricted (breathing resistance), he might try a different regulator. A good regulator that is properly tuned should not have noticable breathing resistance---if it feels like you are sucking through a straw, you shouldn't dive that regulator.

That said, AGAs are great. You'll burn a bit more air, and they aren't suitable for tech diving. But, there is no breathing resistance (positive pressure set-up) and not having cold water on your face is pretty nice too. I would recommend a training class to learn how to use them properly--clearing your ears, removing and replacing the mask, and clearing the mask require different techniques.

JK
 
I dove an AGA for the first time last weekend. It's a totally different critter compaired to a mask and reg.. I didn't feel as secure as I normally do with the reg in my mouth but I got used to it. My SAC rate did increase quite a bit but I'm sure it would drop back some as I became more comfortable.
Your dad will still have to carry a mask and octo. Clearing is easy; just hit the purge button and tilt your head. A class is advised though. Emergency procedures are different than standard and there are considerations for cold water diving using them.

Joe
 
It's not the same as the Scott Airpak. It is on the same order as one but very different. The two shouldn't be confused.

Rent one first, get trained and try it in a pool. Suck up a tank or two first then make a decission. There is a ton of options for them but for sure get one with the "Gill" on it.

Sideband:
Clearing is easy; just hit the purge button and tilt your head. A class is advised though. Emergency procedures are different than standard and there are considerations for cold water diving using them.

Joe
Don't forget to close your eyes. :D

Gary D.
 

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