Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Diving Regulators

By Ed J Price

Having a scuba regulator is excellent whether you are a diving fanatic or new to scuba diving. Scuba regulators vary from warm water regulators, cold water models, and those which are made for any type of dive. Take a look at whats new, what the requirements for diving regulators are, and its surprising alternative.

Update on Regulators

In 2008, we saw the technologically advanced carbon fiber regulator that was lightweight and claimed to be most wanted for years. Compact yet high in performance the carbon fiber regulator's second stage case came in sixty-five percent lighter than it's metal cousins-take a look at these, if for nothing else-your curiosity.

A regulator that became a star in the alternate inflator category is the Sherwood Gemini model. It has scored points with its ease for its breathing features and well designed and placed controls.Apart from its light weight and nitrox ready features, for moderate breathing rates at 132 feet and 165 feet, its rated as excellent.

What's a Must in Regulators?

Most divers look for durability when it comes to regulators. The Sherwood Oasis is a good warm-water regulator. Many of its models were tested for durability, service hours, annual servicing, corrosion issues, and peak performance. Along with the innovation of diving regulators, most were durable. But like any other fine piece of equipment, following the manufacturers recommendation.

The Blizzard, another Sherwood regulator model, is right for cold water dives. Its ability to keep moisture and icing out is only a small part of its many features. It also has a bubble deflector exhaust tee which is exclusive to only this model. It reduces the bubble size which is great for line of vision.

The SR1 by Sherwood boasts a 360-degree swivel that works with both a yoke and DIN attachment. Good for all-weather diving, we were awed at the two high-pressure ports and five low-pressure ports. A top pick for 2008, this scuba regulator had it all, but the 360 degree swivel was impressive and to us-a must.

Alternative Dive Regulators

Alternate inflation regulators exceedingly functional and are integrated into the power inflator, removing the traditional octopus hose. Due to its small housings geared at keeping them ergonomically correct, they were challenging to make. Experts have given the nod to many of these inflation regulators on todays market, leaving expectations for more advancement in these dive regulator models.

Outcome

We looked at lots of models of dive regulators and we connected most with the Sherwood products, perhaps because they've been at it a while. In any event, a regulator is key to your aqua-lung when diving, so be sure to take the time to talk and ask a lot of questions before you commit to buy. Prices can range from a low $200 to highs at $600 or more. Depending on how serious you are in your scuba diving, your sports store should be able to tell you which ones will perform well for you.

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