What Pony Bottle Should I Get if I Plan On Going Into Tech Diving Eventually?

[Vegan Shark]

Great, thanks for all the help everyone.

Last question: Since I'll be getting a second regulator for a pony, what regulator should I get that will be useful for future tech diving?

 

[PfcAJ]

I'm partial to scubapro pistons (mk25 and the like) and the g250. Can be acquired for cheap on the eBay, easily serviced most anywhere, breath great, hold up well to flooding, removable faceplate, plus they look good (half the battle).

 

[Dr. Lecter]

If you like pistons, I'd suggest the atomic M1; diaphragms, the apeks DS4/whatever 2nd stage strikes your fancy.

 

[Michael Guerrero]

For a diaphragm I really like the HOG D1. You can get a 1st and 2nd stage (5-port, environmentally sealed) for $200 at several online retailers.

They also sponsor a course through TDI so you can learn how to service your own gear. And the service kits are readily available from several retailers.

 

[Brewone0to]

I don't have a problem where I live, But consider this.
ScubaPro is easier to get serviced at more places worldwide that most other brands.
Perhaps it is best to find out what brands are carried by your LDS and pick a quality reg from them.
You'll be glad you did when you need fast service done and they have the rebuild kits in stock.

 

[Michael Guerrero]

Perhaps it is best to find out what brands are carried by your LDS and pick a quality reg from them.
You'll be glad you did when you need fast service done and they have the rebuild kits in stock.

That's valid. I service my own gear so it's no an issue, but that's not necessarily your situation or desire.

 

[CamG]

I have transitioned from AL 30s to Al 40's for Tech dives.
The reason I picked the 30 to start is it trimmed better for me in cold water.
I would recommend a din reg HOG or what ever you wish.
The DIR rigging to sling the bottle will do nicely and you can buy one or build one easily.

Next I would recommend training a bit with it on some light dives or in the pool.
Ease into it and remember it is your back up not to be used to extend your dives!
Routinely train with the system breathing the bottle on a safe mock ascent to ensure all components are functioning properly.
Keep current on all training and service I have used these for bailouts and it is very important to be diligent.

Realize that this is going to add task loading to your dive practices if you can hook up with a mentor for a few pre-dives and dives it would help you make the transition.

CamG

 

[waterpirate]

I'm partial to scubapro pistons (mk25 and the like) and the g250. Can be acquired for cheap on the eBay, easily serviced most anywhere, breath great, hold up well to flooding, removable faceplate, plus they look good (half the battle).

I would add that the lp port out the bottom of the first stage makes hose routing really clean if you ever set up a doubles rig. I am diving mk17 and g250.

Tech is also a rabbit hole of expenses. I would buy a plate and wing before I bought a pony bottle. It is the modular platform from which everything else originates.

Eric

 

[doctormike]

I would buy a plate and wing before I bought a pony bottle. It is the modular platform from which everything else originates.

Eric

+1 ...

 

[Max Speed]

Also, for the pony's regulator is a necklace advised?

Necklace works great. You always know where it is. This is the same configuration you will use with doubles or sidemount. Donation should be the reg in your mouth, you go to the necklaced reg.

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