"true" purpose of octo?

[segraves1]

I'm sure this is a "new-bi" question but:

What is the "true" purpose of having a octo (the 2nd second stage)?

It would SEEM to me that other than for providing air to your buddy, it is of little use.

It's always been pointed out to me that second stages almost never stick "closed" (instead are designed to free flow), so having a "backup" doesn't fit. If you run out of air, you run out of air (no backup there either).

With properly maintained equipment and responsible air management, the octo just seems like another thing "hanging around".

 

[diver 85]

I really don't see the need to ask this question.....cause...


Even if it was---& it's not--only "for providing air to your buddy", wouldn't that be enough to have one???..bet your buddy would appreciate the thought...

 

[The Kraken]

Had a student once whose primary failed, and it didn't fail in a free flow condition, the diaphragm lever actually became detached from it's mount and the regulator wouldn't function.

She immediately went to her alternate.

But the primary reason is as an air source for your buddy.

the K

 

[Gombessa]

Also, you could accidentally lose the primary (which is why they teach regulator recovery in OW), or experience other failures (such as the mouthpiece falling off) that would make switching to the backup reg appropriate and convenient.

 

[SkipperJohn]

As a primary reason being an air source for your buddy, I'm thinking you aren't questioning his or her reason for the alternate.

 

[segraves1]

I really don't see the need to ask this question.....cause...


Even if it was---& it's not--only "for providing air to your buddy", wouldn't that be enough to have one???..bet your buddy would appreciate the thought...

I'm not negating its value for that in ANY way!


What got me ask was looking at full face mask setups, older diving rigs (the old school twin hose styles), etc., I got to wondering "I see no 'spare' second stage anywhere.....why?" and which made me ask "whats the purpose of the octo?"

I'm also trying to decide between getting an integrated second/BC inflator or just a second stage, so was trying to get some more insight into the reasoning BEHIND the octo setup (make an informed choice).

 

[Teamcasa]

I'm not negating its value for that in ANY way!


What got me ask was looking at full face mask setups, older diving rigs (the old school twin hose styles), etc., I got to wondering "I see no 'spare' second stage anywhere.....why?" and which made me ask "whats the purpose of the octo?"

I'm also trying to decide between getting an integrated second/BC inflator or just a second stage, so was trying to get some more insight into the reasoning BEHIND the octo setup (make an informed choice).

I dive with several folks that use integrated second/BC inflators and despite a minority of some posters they all like them.

I use a traditional Octo setup, clipped close and out of the way. Works for me

 

[segraves1]

it would SEEM to me that a dedicated (traditional) Octo would be more "reliable" since it does not have to be "combined" with other parts....but then I have heard it pointed out that the integrated is less likely to get dropped in the sand/beat around/etc.... so...

 

[Blackwood]

With the integrated variety, you're pretty much forced into donating your primary and going to the secondary yourself.

Just something to be aware of.

but then I have heard it pointed out that the integrated is less likely to get dropped in the sand/beat around/etc.... so...

Dropping your gear and dragging it in the sand can be chalked up to user error.

 

[tedwhiteva]

The alternative to an octo for sharing air is buddy breathing, which used to be the "standard". And that's not fun for more than about a minute.

Regarding the integrated Octo/Inflator - remember that that becomes your regulator in a share air situation. Make sure you practice buoyancy control adjustments while breathing out of it BEFORE you use it for real.

My .02 and worth every penny you paid for it.