Hey, wondering how deep you can go I'm soon to be starting Dive school & looking to stay & go advanced looking for good tools & advice
@fatcat9109Күн бұрын
I need a dive knife for spear fishing. 1. cutting rope / cordage / seaweed 2. Braining fish 3. Deterring sharks What should I get?
@mechanikos84Күн бұрын
Great, very extensive review. I only missed the divelog. Does it keep a lot of data? Bluetooth app for your phone?
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
Around 160 hours depending on your sample rate
@TJordanWDEКүн бұрын
So you're saying my 11 year old hoses are no good? 😊
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
This diver knows how to look after their hoses
@itzikifergan417Күн бұрын
Hi Mark, I like your videos, it's highly informative and in this case helped me to choose my breathing system🤗
@joshs3916Күн бұрын
Have a Suunto cobra 3, and have yet to use a transmitter.
@joshs3916Күн бұрын
Great explanation
@MrBV2UКүн бұрын
Have heard that baby shampoo isn’t safe for reefs. Is that true or just defog manufacture FUD?
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
There is some truth in there. But because we're diluting a few drops and only using a spray of that each time, there's only a tiny amount that ends up in the ocean, that further dilutes it. Compared to what you use in a shower that ends up in the ocean or sunscreen it's a tiny amount. It is important that we limit what ends up in the ocean and there are some reef-safe defogs out there.
@Steve-lo8pb2 күн бұрын
I like the content, but it's more of a podcast than a you tube clip.
@willsmooth452 күн бұрын
Lol apparently you missed the intro where he says “hello fellow scuba divers welcome to the scuba divers magazine podcast”
@harambeexpress2 күн бұрын
We need a converter for GPS to whatever that sonar wireless technology is (like on new Garmin watches have). You could send up a transceiver on a SMB and then it can send your coordinates and heading down to you.
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
There are a few systems out there. I've seen some systems that involve a buoy like the SUEX Seika
@provuksmc66192 күн бұрын
This feels like s perfect opportunity for Padi to come up with a underwater conservationist speciality course. Caught and convicted individuals can pay the fine and need to do this course. There they will learn to not touch anything and boat diving 😂
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
Like a speed awareness course if you're caught speeding...
@HelgiRu2 күн бұрын
Using a console computer (like Oceanic Pro Plus X) solves all the redundancy issues. One hose for console and one hose for the second stage if one uses Scubapro Air2 octo inflator-integrated. Very streamlined and minimalistic
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
Yeah, they're not very popular here in the UK. You see a few divers with them but most are wrist mounted. If you only dive one set of regs they're a good option.
@fridericogatti12132 күн бұрын
The MK25 remains the market reference as the best-in-class option to reach
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
It's a solid 1st stage. I think I saw one being used in a submarine to regulate the pressure in the cockpit
@kennethjmcarthur24282 күн бұрын
Good video, Mark. Heard a few new things I never did before.
@kennethjmcarthur24282 күн бұрын
I also use a checklist and my list rarely changes for warm water diving. My HydrosPro BCD w/Air2 comes with its own backpack and it holds my reg, mask in box, socks, torch w/ charger, snorkel, Teric w/ charger, dive charts, small waterproof container (minimal tools & O rings) & mesh bag. This is my carry-on. OMG, I need to see my list to make sure I didn't miss anything. My rash guards and thin neoprene shorts as well as Nova fins fit in my one check bag with clothing. Love your videos, always a good point or two to take notice. Thank you, James.
@josephdragan77342 күн бұрын
Please address how to compensate for those who have a mustache. Is there any thing short of shaving your upper lip to get a good seal?
@Olof123Күн бұрын
I dive with a full beard, for me a lot comes down to the mask fitment, I try to keep my upper lip shorter 7 to 10mm. Was on a live aboard in the GBR, and forgot my razor ended up using Vaseline (or silicone grease should work) around my mask line, but I tend to try to keep it tidy when I can. Read somewhere that shaving 2mm under your nose might do the trick as well.
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
I tend to use some beard balm to help the seal across the top lip. That and a mask that fits very well.
@joehopfield2 күн бұрын
In California it's common to use a torn off piece of kelp rubbed on the inside of the lens - works well even after you're in the water. Defog-film reminded me of some glue-in bifocal lenses I used before I got prescription lenses. Without a good mask, diving is kinda pointless... <3
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
Interesting, I've never heard of the kelp technique. I'll have to harvest some here and see if the local variety works
@HenryWilson-vr8td2 күн бұрын
whats the battery life on that
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
around 20 hours depending on brightness settings etc.
@CrazyGuyBlahBlah2 күн бұрын
Integrated for me, thanks.
@KernowMarineNetwork2 күн бұрын
I’m a medic, diver and a gym bunny, not a scientist but I have been thinking about why divers would claim to feel better using Nitrox as opposed to standard air… I found this extract from an article. “During your dive your muscles use oxygen to make the energy they need. If diving on standard air your muscles make this energy more anaerobically because of the higher PPN (nitrogen) oxygen can't get into the muscle tissue as effectively to keep up with the amount of energy the muscles need. When your muscles are making energy anaerobically, lactic acid is created as a byproduct. Although lactic acid does leave the muscles before muscle fatigue begins this repeated cycle can make you feel tired and physically weak. Conversely, with Nitrox diving the higher level of inspired oxygen feeds the muscles being exercised when finning and creates less general fatigue” This may scientifically explain the common claims from many divers that they feel less fatigued diving on Nitrox Perhaps if we want to feel happier diving we could also use Nitrous oxide instead of nitrogen 😆
@one4allall4one562 күн бұрын
After a long dive, it is good to have a valve installed, yuo know...
@plhi722 күн бұрын
This video is out just on time I just bought a new mask a day ago 👌
@amadeuss33412 күн бұрын
Baby shampoo workouts best for me for years. Most important is do it right before a dive and put it on. I see too many divers who defor the mask 20min before and wear it on the neck. And have a foggy situation 5min down the dive
@renatogodinhorg2 күн бұрын
👏😉👌
@AirwolfCrazy2 күн бұрын
The SPG is a backup to the computer T/R. It is also easier to for a buddy to look at an SPG instead of trying to get a good angle to look at the computer. Yes, the computer T/R are very good but can fail. The odds of both a computer and SPG failing during the dive are low. I did once have an SPG on my Sidemount setup develop a tiny leak at the o-ring. My buddy alerted me to the fault. Fortunately, I could shut down that tank and I finished off the dive on my second tank.
@whaleshark26252 күн бұрын
The primary reason I keep an SPG on my rig is so that if the transmitter dies on the boat, I don't have to skip the dive.
@nathmarriott813 күн бұрын
I have both, transmitter and SPG. When I do my buddy check I watch my SPG for deflection, when I take air from my 2nd stage. This could indicate an issue with my regulator/s. When diving my SPG is clipped to my backplate out of the way and I use my transmitter and computer (shearwater teric) I was going to get rid, but mate of mine had a digital pressure gauge in a SPG pod, the battery was new, 10 dives in, it worked the night before, worked on the boat out to dive site, dropped into the water and it stopped working 5 mins into the dive. Luckily we hadn’t gone too deep so surfaced, swapped to a dial SPG and carried on the dive. Winner. Love the channel and the information. 👍🏽
@willsmooth453 күн бұрын
Spitting on the dive deck bro we are on a fckin boat spit off the fcking side ! I had to yell at some stupid old lady for spitting right next to all our gear right in the dive deck like wtf are you thinking
@10Sorz3 күн бұрын
I tried the zip tie method. But as it seems it pulls away the mouthpiece and allow the water to get through. (I tried to tight hard the zip but same thing happen over time). Any recommendation? Is bungee knot better method? Thanks.
@ScubaDiverMagazineКүн бұрын
Yeah that can happen on some 2nd stage designs. If the mouthpiece pulls off easily then I would use a half hitch knot on each end of the bungee to create an adjustable attachment loop. It's not as secure as using the cable tie but, you're less likely to lose a mouthpiece.
@10SorzКүн бұрын
@@ScubaDiverMagazine Thank you, brother. I will surely try that.
@yevgenskachenko80583 күн бұрын
Love your content, but my God, your accent is horrendous
@epikarhu4 күн бұрын
I dive backmout single at work and I do have an spg clipped to my d-ring, I just can't even remember when I took a look at it last time since I also have a shearwater with swift transmitter. When diving sidemount I have transmitters as primary and little button SPG's just as a backup but I'm scared of them getting damaged especially when hauling tanks to cars or in to the Caves or mines. That's why I always carry a couple of spare buttons on my SDK just in case. Question: Has anyone seen a button spg cover or protector that could be removed only in case the stage pressure needs to be checked or when the transmitter fails and analog spg is needed. Just a little something to give protection for the glass, or do I have to buy a 3d printer to overcome the problem. 😅 #askmark
@ScubaDiverMagazine4 күн бұрын
I've never seen one myself. Button Gauges come in a couple of shapes and many divers consider them disposable compared to a full SPG. My mind goes to a rubber hose cap, find one that's the right diameter and that should protect it a little...
@epikarhu4 күн бұрын
@@ScubaDiverMagazine true, that's why I have a save a few extras in my save a dive kit. On the other hand maybe this is the problem I can solve by finally getting a 3d printer on top of all the other junk in my Cave 😅
@jacobalinsky45074 күн бұрын
I started carrying mine again. I had a big issue with the Garmin T1 transmitter after it updated. The transmitter would read out of the water but soon as it was submerged the transmitter wouldn't connect. (this issue happened in a pool) Garmin ended sending a new unit but i still carry my SPG
@OrenNoah4 күн бұрын
I always like having the "brass and glass," even though I've never experienced (yet) a transmitter or receiver failure.
@KarimMesallam4 күн бұрын
Two minor points: The frog kick was a modified frog kick, the full frog kick has a bigger range of motion when it comes to the hips. The back kick was moving a bit to the top and could easily be fixed if you're looking in front of you instead of looking down. Once you look in front of you the back kick will improve and you will be better able to maintain your depth while kicking.
@bartbotterweck4 күн бұрын
Hi Mark, unrelated question but I am trying to find a pair of fins which are positively buoyant. Currently I am on my second pair of Seawing Nova’s but unfortunately the hinge is starting to tear again. Looking for a good and sturdy alternative. Do you know of any alternatives?
@ScubaDiverMagazine4 күн бұрын
Deep 6 Eddy's are buoyant from what I've heard. Standard Apeks RK3 fins are also fairly buoyant. The new Scubapro S-Tek fins are positive but, you can add metal plates to adjust their buoyancy. Those are all tough fins and buoyant from my recollection...
@brianredmond49194 күн бұрын
Any tips for freeing up a stuck brass zipper ?.
@ScubaDiverMagazine4 күн бұрын
A nice warm bath. It depends what it's sticking on but, if it's salt or something binding the slider then soak it in warm water and give the slider a gentle clean with a toothbrush. If that doesn't work you can use a 50:50 white vinegar water bath for 10mins then 10mins in bicarb/water bath to neutralise the acid. Sometimes it takes more than one soak and clean to get through it all but, if it's really stubborn then I'd dip it in an ultrasonic cleaner if you have access to one you can fit the section into.
@timgosling61894 күн бұрын
I use transmitters because I like having all the data on my computers, and they're more accurate than a traditional SPG. But I also have SPGs because its a lot easier for that quick check after a fill.
@gabrielex4 күн бұрын
I don't have a transmitter, eventually will get one when I'll replace my dive computer, but still I think having a SPG is a must. It is surely nore reliable than an electronic wireless device, doesn't need a battery, can't have interference or coupling issues, and its way, way less expensive, also it works with any cylinder, disregarding the model of dive computer you're using. The best backup is always analog.
@jafores5 күн бұрын
Had a bad experience with a Garmin Transmitter that was off warranty , the Trans was reading 500 PSI more than the SPG , thought that was pretty dangerous , sent it to the local dealer , they said since it was off warranty my only option was to buy a new one ! . My SPG stays for now
@saraha39585 күн бұрын
I must be the unlucky one. The Jonas of computers & transponders.When I got my new dive computer & transponder 4 years ago. I had 3 transponders fail within a few months of each other. Must have been a faulty batch!! They would intermittently fail to link before the dive so I was really pleased I had my spg. It always buy top quality computers and transmitters and rinse them after every dive. I brought another new computer 6 months ago and that failed but they replaced it. I dive every 2 weeks. No matter what happens I have always been able to dive as I have 2 computers, one transponder and a spg. I like redundancy 😊
@Dominicktravel5 күн бұрын
I use 2 dive computers when on live aboards. One with transmitter. If that were to die the SPG non transmitter computer allows me to continue to dive. It has occured so I can continue multiple daily dives as I then revert to the SPG. Cheap insurance. That way I do not have to have a 24 hour break.
@StefanoPrezioso5 күн бұрын
Context: I dive recreational open circuit only, and I use both a transmitter and an SPG currently, but I'd really love to ditch the SPG. On my old dive computer (Suunto D4i), I had connection issues with the transmitter somewhat regularly, and so the SPG was a must simply due to the lack of reliability in that transmitter/computer. I've recently upgraded to a Garmin Descent Mk3i and am excited to test that out and see how it does. The other problem with the Suunto transmitter was the battery was not technically field replaceable, and there was no great way to check the remaining battery life. With the Garmin T2 having a field replaceable battery, assuming the connectivity is more reliable, I'll feel much better ditching the SPG. Might go to button gauge as an interim move, and keep the SPG and HP hose in the dive bag in case of emergency.
@jamiemorris76883 күн бұрын
Frustratingly the suunto transmitters used to have user replacable batteries but for some reason that stopped that through what in my opinion was a rather underhanded recall.
@patrickmoore28565 күн бұрын
I have a shearwater teric that the receiver in the computer broke. I had to get a new circuit board. Having and spg allowed me to keep diving until I could get home and send the teric in for repair.
@x9949105 күн бұрын
I bring my 2 SPGs as part of Save-a-Dive kit. I dive sidemount twinset and setup my watch to remind me every 20 bar to swap (Thanks Teric for the amazing feature). If there's anything wrong, I would just end the dive. Well, that is the plan. Have I used that plan yet? Nope. None of the transmitters have failed me so far. Dive is a calculated risk. If you can justify why you don't need an SPG, then go for it. For me, bring SPG as S.A.D kit and never do a deco/ cave dive without SPGs. I never ever use a 15cm HP hose on my transmitters too; stop letting other people (dive centers) prep your tanks. That's my 5c anyway on this matter.
@skydiverninetysix5 күн бұрын
Nice to have one on a liveaboard. Even if it's left on the boat, since "end the dive" becomes "end the DIVES" when / if the transmitter fails for whatever reason.
@nodidog5 күн бұрын
People talk about potential reliability concerns of transmitters, as if SPGs can't also fail.
@jamiemorris76885 күн бұрын
My transmitter link failed on the only thistlegorm dive of the trip. If I didn't have a backup SPG then I would not have been able to complete the dive and totally missed out. I'd never call a dive just based on a transmitter failure. That solidified it for me, I love the AI but I'd always want a backup.
@nodidog5 күн бұрын
This isn't an argument for SPGs though, just for redundancy. A backup transmitter would've been just as good
@bugman97875 күн бұрын
@@nodidog what happens if the computer craps out?
@nodidog5 күн бұрын
@@bugman9787 the same as any piece of equipment - you either have a redundant backup, or you don't. Unless your whole group will accept diving box profiles with tables, the dive is over if a computer fails. You make a good point in that it's only a single point of failure, rather than two. That's true, but i'd have to seriously question how I treat my gear if both a transmitter and computer fail on the same trip
@bugman97875 күн бұрын
@@nodidog my scuba pro computer died after 10 dives, shit happens! Just when you think it can’t happen, it does!
@nodidog4 күн бұрын
@@bugman9787 That doesn't really change anything that I said - but that is pretty shocking (presuming the computer was brand new). Why did it fail, did it flood or something?
@jakeh30775 күн бұрын
I run both but I’ll probably drop the SPG from my first stage (but still pack it for dive trips). Debating about the button gauge. Still like analog for setup and teardown.
@SuperScubaTim5 күн бұрын
An analogue SPG should be a backup to your brain. Spend some time on your SAC to bar per minute at depth. Based on your average depth, then you should be able to roughly determine what gas you have remaining and confirm it on the SPG. If something is unexpected then deal with it. You can also check an SPG is working smoothly every time you turn on/off gas. Ditch the costly transmitters and invest in some quality training instead.
Пікірлер
Hey, wondering how deep you can go I'm soon to be starting Dive school & looking to stay & go advanced looking for good tools & advice
I need a dive knife for spear fishing. 1. cutting rope / cordage / seaweed 2. Braining fish 3. Deterring sharks What should I get?
Great, very extensive review. I only missed the divelog. Does it keep a lot of data? Bluetooth app for your phone?
Around 160 hours depending on your sample rate
So you're saying my 11 year old hoses are no good? 😊
This diver knows how to look after their hoses
Hi Mark, I like your videos, it's highly informative and in this case helped me to choose my breathing system🤗
Have a Suunto cobra 3, and have yet to use a transmitter.
Great explanation
Have heard that baby shampoo isn’t safe for reefs. Is that true or just defog manufacture FUD?
There is some truth in there. But because we're diluting a few drops and only using a spray of that each time, there's only a tiny amount that ends up in the ocean, that further dilutes it. Compared to what you use in a shower that ends up in the ocean or sunscreen it's a tiny amount. It is important that we limit what ends up in the ocean and there are some reef-safe defogs out there.
I like the content, but it's more of a podcast than a you tube clip.
Lol apparently you missed the intro where he says “hello fellow scuba divers welcome to the scuba divers magazine podcast”
We need a converter for GPS to whatever that sonar wireless technology is (like on new Garmin watches have). You could send up a transceiver on a SMB and then it can send your coordinates and heading down to you.
There are a few systems out there. I've seen some systems that involve a buoy like the SUEX Seika
This feels like s perfect opportunity for Padi to come up with a underwater conservationist speciality course. Caught and convicted individuals can pay the fine and need to do this course. There they will learn to not touch anything and boat diving 😂
Like a speed awareness course if you're caught speeding...
Using a console computer (like Oceanic Pro Plus X) solves all the redundancy issues. One hose for console and one hose for the second stage if one uses Scubapro Air2 octo inflator-integrated. Very streamlined and minimalistic
Yeah, they're not very popular here in the UK. You see a few divers with them but most are wrist mounted. If you only dive one set of regs they're a good option.
The MK25 remains the market reference as the best-in-class option to reach
It's a solid 1st stage. I think I saw one being used in a submarine to regulate the pressure in the cockpit
Good video, Mark. Heard a few new things I never did before.
I also use a checklist and my list rarely changes for warm water diving. My HydrosPro BCD w/Air2 comes with its own backpack and it holds my reg, mask in box, socks, torch w/ charger, snorkel, Teric w/ charger, dive charts, small waterproof container (minimal tools & O rings) & mesh bag. This is my carry-on. OMG, I need to see my list to make sure I didn't miss anything. My rash guards and thin neoprene shorts as well as Nova fins fit in my one check bag with clothing. Love your videos, always a good point or two to take notice. Thank you, James.
Please address how to compensate for those who have a mustache. Is there any thing short of shaving your upper lip to get a good seal?
I dive with a full beard, for me a lot comes down to the mask fitment, I try to keep my upper lip shorter 7 to 10mm. Was on a live aboard in the GBR, and forgot my razor ended up using Vaseline (or silicone grease should work) around my mask line, but I tend to try to keep it tidy when I can. Read somewhere that shaving 2mm under your nose might do the trick as well.
I tend to use some beard balm to help the seal across the top lip. That and a mask that fits very well.
In California it's common to use a torn off piece of kelp rubbed on the inside of the lens - works well even after you're in the water. Defog-film reminded me of some glue-in bifocal lenses I used before I got prescription lenses. Without a good mask, diving is kinda pointless... <3
Interesting, I've never heard of the kelp technique. I'll have to harvest some here and see if the local variety works
whats the battery life on that
around 20 hours depending on brightness settings etc.
Integrated for me, thanks.
I’m a medic, diver and a gym bunny, not a scientist but I have been thinking about why divers would claim to feel better using Nitrox as opposed to standard air… I found this extract from an article. “During your dive your muscles use oxygen to make the energy they need. If diving on standard air your muscles make this energy more anaerobically because of the higher PPN (nitrogen) oxygen can't get into the muscle tissue as effectively to keep up with the amount of energy the muscles need. When your muscles are making energy anaerobically, lactic acid is created as a byproduct. Although lactic acid does leave the muscles before muscle fatigue begins this repeated cycle can make you feel tired and physically weak. Conversely, with Nitrox diving the higher level of inspired oxygen feeds the muscles being exercised when finning and creates less general fatigue” This may scientifically explain the common claims from many divers that they feel less fatigued diving on Nitrox Perhaps if we want to feel happier diving we could also use Nitrous oxide instead of nitrogen 😆
After a long dive, it is good to have a valve installed, yuo know...
This video is out just on time I just bought a new mask a day ago 👌
Baby shampoo workouts best for me for years. Most important is do it right before a dive and put it on. I see too many divers who defor the mask 20min before and wear it on the neck. And have a foggy situation 5min down the dive
👏😉👌
The SPG is a backup to the computer T/R. It is also easier to for a buddy to look at an SPG instead of trying to get a good angle to look at the computer. Yes, the computer T/R are very good but can fail. The odds of both a computer and SPG failing during the dive are low. I did once have an SPG on my Sidemount setup develop a tiny leak at the o-ring. My buddy alerted me to the fault. Fortunately, I could shut down that tank and I finished off the dive on my second tank.
The primary reason I keep an SPG on my rig is so that if the transmitter dies on the boat, I don't have to skip the dive.
I have both, transmitter and SPG. When I do my buddy check I watch my SPG for deflection, when I take air from my 2nd stage. This could indicate an issue with my regulator/s. When diving my SPG is clipped to my backplate out of the way and I use my transmitter and computer (shearwater teric) I was going to get rid, but mate of mine had a digital pressure gauge in a SPG pod, the battery was new, 10 dives in, it worked the night before, worked on the boat out to dive site, dropped into the water and it stopped working 5 mins into the dive. Luckily we hadn’t gone too deep so surfaced, swapped to a dial SPG and carried on the dive. Winner. Love the channel and the information. 👍🏽
Spitting on the dive deck bro we are on a fckin boat spit off the fcking side ! I had to yell at some stupid old lady for spitting right next to all our gear right in the dive deck like wtf are you thinking
I tried the zip tie method. But as it seems it pulls away the mouthpiece and allow the water to get through. (I tried to tight hard the zip but same thing happen over time). Any recommendation? Is bungee knot better method? Thanks.
Yeah that can happen on some 2nd stage designs. If the mouthpiece pulls off easily then I would use a half hitch knot on each end of the bungee to create an adjustable attachment loop. It's not as secure as using the cable tie but, you're less likely to lose a mouthpiece.
@@ScubaDiverMagazine Thank you, brother. I will surely try that.
Love your content, but my God, your accent is horrendous
I dive backmout single at work and I do have an spg clipped to my d-ring, I just can't even remember when I took a look at it last time since I also have a shearwater with swift transmitter. When diving sidemount I have transmitters as primary and little button SPG's just as a backup but I'm scared of them getting damaged especially when hauling tanks to cars or in to the Caves or mines. That's why I always carry a couple of spare buttons on my SDK just in case. Question: Has anyone seen a button spg cover or protector that could be removed only in case the stage pressure needs to be checked or when the transmitter fails and analog spg is needed. Just a little something to give protection for the glass, or do I have to buy a 3d printer to overcome the problem. 😅 #askmark
I've never seen one myself. Button Gauges come in a couple of shapes and many divers consider them disposable compared to a full SPG. My mind goes to a rubber hose cap, find one that's the right diameter and that should protect it a little...
@@ScubaDiverMagazine true, that's why I have a save a few extras in my save a dive kit. On the other hand maybe this is the problem I can solve by finally getting a 3d printer on top of all the other junk in my Cave 😅
I started carrying mine again. I had a big issue with the Garmin T1 transmitter after it updated. The transmitter would read out of the water but soon as it was submerged the transmitter wouldn't connect. (this issue happened in a pool) Garmin ended sending a new unit but i still carry my SPG
I always like having the "brass and glass," even though I've never experienced (yet) a transmitter or receiver failure.
Two minor points: The frog kick was a modified frog kick, the full frog kick has a bigger range of motion when it comes to the hips. The back kick was moving a bit to the top and could easily be fixed if you're looking in front of you instead of looking down. Once you look in front of you the back kick will improve and you will be better able to maintain your depth while kicking.
Hi Mark, unrelated question but I am trying to find a pair of fins which are positively buoyant. Currently I am on my second pair of Seawing Nova’s but unfortunately the hinge is starting to tear again. Looking for a good and sturdy alternative. Do you know of any alternatives?
Deep 6 Eddy's are buoyant from what I've heard. Standard Apeks RK3 fins are also fairly buoyant. The new Scubapro S-Tek fins are positive but, you can add metal plates to adjust their buoyancy. Those are all tough fins and buoyant from my recollection...
Any tips for freeing up a stuck brass zipper ?.
A nice warm bath. It depends what it's sticking on but, if it's salt or something binding the slider then soak it in warm water and give the slider a gentle clean with a toothbrush. If that doesn't work you can use a 50:50 white vinegar water bath for 10mins then 10mins in bicarb/water bath to neutralise the acid. Sometimes it takes more than one soak and clean to get through it all but, if it's really stubborn then I'd dip it in an ultrasonic cleaner if you have access to one you can fit the section into.
I use transmitters because I like having all the data on my computers, and they're more accurate than a traditional SPG. But I also have SPGs because its a lot easier for that quick check after a fill.
I don't have a transmitter, eventually will get one when I'll replace my dive computer, but still I think having a SPG is a must. It is surely nore reliable than an electronic wireless device, doesn't need a battery, can't have interference or coupling issues, and its way, way less expensive, also it works with any cylinder, disregarding the model of dive computer you're using. The best backup is always analog.
Had a bad experience with a Garmin Transmitter that was off warranty , the Trans was reading 500 PSI more than the SPG , thought that was pretty dangerous , sent it to the local dealer , they said since it was off warranty my only option was to buy a new one ! . My SPG stays for now
I must be the unlucky one. The Jonas of computers & transponders.When I got my new dive computer & transponder 4 years ago. I had 3 transponders fail within a few months of each other. Must have been a faulty batch!! They would intermittently fail to link before the dive so I was really pleased I had my spg. It always buy top quality computers and transmitters and rinse them after every dive. I brought another new computer 6 months ago and that failed but they replaced it. I dive every 2 weeks. No matter what happens I have always been able to dive as I have 2 computers, one transponder and a spg. I like redundancy 😊
I use 2 dive computers when on live aboards. One with transmitter. If that were to die the SPG non transmitter computer allows me to continue to dive. It has occured so I can continue multiple daily dives as I then revert to the SPG. Cheap insurance. That way I do not have to have a 24 hour break.
Context: I dive recreational open circuit only, and I use both a transmitter and an SPG currently, but I'd really love to ditch the SPG. On my old dive computer (Suunto D4i), I had connection issues with the transmitter somewhat regularly, and so the SPG was a must simply due to the lack of reliability in that transmitter/computer. I've recently upgraded to a Garmin Descent Mk3i and am excited to test that out and see how it does. The other problem with the Suunto transmitter was the battery was not technically field replaceable, and there was no great way to check the remaining battery life. With the Garmin T2 having a field replaceable battery, assuming the connectivity is more reliable, I'll feel much better ditching the SPG. Might go to button gauge as an interim move, and keep the SPG and HP hose in the dive bag in case of emergency.
Frustratingly the suunto transmitters used to have user replacable batteries but for some reason that stopped that through what in my opinion was a rather underhanded recall.
I have a shearwater teric that the receiver in the computer broke. I had to get a new circuit board. Having and spg allowed me to keep diving until I could get home and send the teric in for repair.
I bring my 2 SPGs as part of Save-a-Dive kit. I dive sidemount twinset and setup my watch to remind me every 20 bar to swap (Thanks Teric for the amazing feature). If there's anything wrong, I would just end the dive. Well, that is the plan. Have I used that plan yet? Nope. None of the transmitters have failed me so far. Dive is a calculated risk. If you can justify why you don't need an SPG, then go for it. For me, bring SPG as S.A.D kit and never do a deco/ cave dive without SPGs. I never ever use a 15cm HP hose on my transmitters too; stop letting other people (dive centers) prep your tanks. That's my 5c anyway on this matter.
Nice to have one on a liveaboard. Even if it's left on the boat, since "end the dive" becomes "end the DIVES" when / if the transmitter fails for whatever reason.
People talk about potential reliability concerns of transmitters, as if SPGs can't also fail.
My transmitter link failed on the only thistlegorm dive of the trip. If I didn't have a backup SPG then I would not have been able to complete the dive and totally missed out. I'd never call a dive just based on a transmitter failure. That solidified it for me, I love the AI but I'd always want a backup.
This isn't an argument for SPGs though, just for redundancy. A backup transmitter would've been just as good
@@nodidog what happens if the computer craps out?
@@bugman9787 the same as any piece of equipment - you either have a redundant backup, or you don't. Unless your whole group will accept diving box profiles with tables, the dive is over if a computer fails. You make a good point in that it's only a single point of failure, rather than two. That's true, but i'd have to seriously question how I treat my gear if both a transmitter and computer fail on the same trip
@@nodidog my scuba pro computer died after 10 dives, shit happens! Just when you think it can’t happen, it does!
@@bugman9787 That doesn't really change anything that I said - but that is pretty shocking (presuming the computer was brand new). Why did it fail, did it flood or something?
I run both but I’ll probably drop the SPG from my first stage (but still pack it for dive trips). Debating about the button gauge. Still like analog for setup and teardown.
An analogue SPG should be a backup to your brain. Spend some time on your SAC to bar per minute at depth. Based on your average depth, then you should be able to roughly determine what gas you have remaining and confirm it on the SPG. If something is unexpected then deal with it. You can also check an SPG is working smoothly every time you turn on/off gas. Ditch the costly transmitters and invest in some quality training instead.