Second reg set

[crispix]

I'm seriously considering getting a pony bottle. I see a couple ways to go for the regulator. (I'm also interested in the great pony debate, just not here and now.)

I'm currently diving an Atomic Z2 (DIN) and like it very much.

Option 1: use the Z2 on the pony bottle and get a new B2 as my primary. Is the swivel that much better?

Option 2: Get a MK2+ and R295 for the pony. Save some money; go with old faithful. Seems like a win-win.

I think it makes sense to get a DIN valve on the pony in order to keep all my regulators DIN, so I can use any reg with any tank. Can I even get a MK2 with DIN? (I do have yoke inserts on my main tanks so I guess it's not a huge problem if I get a yoke regulator.)

I suppose Option 3 is to buy a used regulator for the pony. There are certainly plenty of them out there. But where's the fun in that?

What have others done when buying a second reg set for a pony?

 

[jsf35]

If you would not use a reg as a primary why would you use it as a pony reg? If you are comfortable with the way a reg breathes use it. We are talking about life support gear and should not be basing our buying decisions on price. ( although that is what we mostly do) What I suggest doing is try as many new regs as you can. If you find something you like more than what you are using, get it and use that as your primary, and move what you are using now to your pony/stage rig. No surprises. If you want to experience lowest bidder life support gear, join the military. (I am a former Navy Diver)
I have found that you generally get what you pay for with regs, and the more you pay, the better it breathes.

Scott

 

[red_barbarian]

I'd stay a DIN diver. Get the new reg if you like it better, from what I've read about the atomics it'll be the same. You might consider getting another Z2, I'm a big fan of have everything be the same. Then you have an set of ready to go replacement set for when you're not using the pony. Throw in a hose and some spare orings and a reg failure on the dive boat is no big deal, whip out the wrench move parts around, no missed dives and you're diving with gear you know.

 

[battles2a5]

I agree w/ red barbarian. Stick w/ the same reg. Not only will you have spare parts if needed, but if you decide to go to doubles, you will have identical reg sets.

 

[halocline]

If you would not use a reg as a primary why would you use it as a pony reg? If you are comfortable with the way a reg breathes use it. We are talking about life support gear and should not be basing our buying decisions on price.....(snip)I have found that you generally get what you pay for with regs, and the more you pay, the better it breathes.

Scott

What do you think, using a less expensive reg is more dangerous? This is yet another example of the "fear as sales tactics" that permeates the dive industry. It's amazing how many people buy it, literally as well as figuratively! In this case it's especially absurd because the MK2, with it's one moving part and no dynamic o-rings subject to high pressure, is certainly one of the most reliable reg designs ever; it almost can't fail.

The MK2 is available in DIN, and is considered an ideal stage/pony reg. One nice thing about it is that the unbalanced piston design will give you some warning as the bottle empties w/out a SPG. Another thing is that the design is fairly tolerant of being flooded. I'd get one of those, and there's nothing wrong with buying a used one IF you know a good tech to evaluate and rebuild it.

As far as "the more you pay, the better it breathes" that's a good one. I guess the $76 I spent on a MK10/D300 must mean that it breathes very badly.

 

[crispix]

It's amazing how many people buy it, literally as well as figuratively! In this case it's especially absurd because the MK2, with its one moving part and no dynamic o-rings subject to high pressure, is certainly one of the most reliable reg designs ever; it almost can't fail.

Yes, that is what I was thinking when I selected it as one of my options for the pony. Price is not really a factor in my selection; I can afford to buy a B2, I'm just wondering if it is the right choice for me. I find it interesting that one of the most reliable regs out there also happens to be a lower cost item. That being said, I think I will throw out the "buy a used reg" option -- this is indeed life support equipment and I would like to get a new reg and take care of it properly.

With a pony, I agree that it may be beneficial to have an unbalanced reg that gives some warning before running out. I've used an MK2 before (who hasn't -- isn't it the standard in OW classes?) and would have no problem using it as a primary reg if my Z2 was in the shop or otherwise unavailable.

Thanks for all the comments -- it's been very helpful.

 

[Packhorse]

What ever you do do not buy a used reg. Especially something like a 109 or 156 scubapro. You will end up regretting buying your other regs.

Having matching regs for everything does has some advantages like swaping them over if one fails.

Sure the MK2 is super reliable but I prefer an adjustable 2nd stage so I can detune it while not in use. The R295 does not have this feature.

But in all seriousness the final option of buying a good second hand set could be just as good option as the 1st. And a lot cheaper.

Oh Mattboy, I just got a MK5 and 109 for $50. Im sure at that price it will not breath at all. Im not worried though as its nice and shiny