inflatable PFD

grady tom · 05-29-2007, 07:27 AM

Before I buy the inflatable PFD, I would like some input from you guys, should I go for the Manual inflatable or the Automatic inflatable PFD?
Thank you.

puffins crew · 05-29-2007, 07:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by grady tom

Before I buy the inflatable PFD, I would like some input from you guys, should I go for the Manual inflatable or the Automatic inflatable PFD?
Thank you.

I went with an auto inflate unit because I believe that if I end up in the water, it is because I got knocked for a loop and I want to have my head up out of the water. I also went with 38lbs buoyancy model.

Peace, Tom

CATCH AND EAT · 05-29-2007, 07:42 AM

Auto inflate at least as per puffins crew suggestion. I'd rather see everyone in a regular life vest thought. No mechanical componants to depend on. You just float.

ron m · 05-29-2007, 09:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by grady tom

Before I buy the inflatable PFD, I would like some input from you guys, should I go for the Manual inflatable or the Automatic inflatable PFD?
Thank you.

I have 4 inflatables, 2 are manual stearns, got those first. They work and are comfortable to wear. Then I got 2 mustang auto vests, they are more heavy duty but still comfortable. I wear one of the mustangs, but would still be ok wearing one of the stearns. Hitting the water would be a shock, I think I'd be ok pulling the cord, but sure like the idea of the auto inflate if I ever go into the water. I'll have lots to think/worry about if I ever hit the water without worrying about pulling the cord to inflate the vest.

The advantage of the inflatable is that it is comfortable enough to wear it ALL the time on the boat. I could wear one of the regular PFDs that I keep on board, but don't think I'd wear it all the time, it's a pain to wear while fishing or hauling pots.

ron m

grady tom · 05-29-2007, 09:52 AM

Thanks for the input . I will go with the auto one, that way I am not worry about pulling the cord. We do wear a regular life vest during runing in and out. This inflatable is to wear during fishing, it s comfortable to wear it all the time, no excuse not to wear on now...

ICHTHYDEMON · 05-29-2007, 10:23 AM

Get the hydrostatic model. I read of too many people having the auto jackets go off when they got wet. The hydrostatic model won't go off until the inflate valve is 4" under water.

hot wire · 05-29-2007, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ICHTHYDEMON

Get the hydrostatic model. I read of too many people having the auto jackets go off when they got wet. The hydrostatic model won't go off until the inflate valve is 4" under water.

Could'nt have said it better myself! That's an awesome feature.....but spendy.
Another excellent reason to have a good auto-inflater is as a matter of safety. People can actually hit their head falling overboard, and unconscience persons don't pull cords well. :frown:

USCGBoating · 05-29-2007, 11:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HewesFisher

Could'nt have said it better myself! That's an awesome feature.....but spendy.
Another excellent reason to have a good auto-inflater is as a matter of safety. People can actually hit their head falling overboard, and unconscience persons don't pull cords well. :frown:

It is spendy but the hydro release is good for 5 years. If you have the others style and do your annual maintnenace you will probably spend that much over that period of time.

Dan

Chrome Bumper · 05-29-2007, 03:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by USCGBoating

It is spendy but the hydro release is good for 5 years. If you have the others style and do your annual maintnenace you will probably spend that much over that period of time.

Dan

Not crazy about a pfd that needs regular overhauls or replacement. What is a reasoably comfortable non inflatable type?

Hunt'nFish · 05-29-2007, 03:56 PM

Memories of a certain IFisher who lost his dad on the CR Bar w/ an inflatable comes to mind.
I'm with the rest, hard to beat a proper fitting foam vest. I'm kinda liking my new Mustang Integrity coat. A couple pockets for personal PFD gear like a strobe, whistle and a pop-off flare. Looking to add a handheld VHF but can't find one small enough that is waterproof.
Hunt'nFish

adobe wall · 05-29-2007, 04:08 PM

go with what feels good so that you will wear it.

I bought a Stearns standard vest ($46) that has a mesh top and cushioned collar, it feels great. It's got pockets and wears like a fishing vest.

At the same time, I bought an auto inflate. My rationale was a nice vest for the boat and a nice autoinflate for myself. The autoinflate felt very constrictive on my neck- big and bulky compared to the sterns mesh top PFD. I took the autoinflate back.

I wear the stearns vest and like it a lot. I'd put in a pic but still just end up with a link, can't figure it out.

hth, aw

GoneCoastal · 05-29-2007, 08:07 PM

I have Stearns type 1 off-shore vest I wear when I'm on the ocean, (Don't like the idea of air chambers) it has more foam behind the head and I feel it will float me better if the water is rough. I've worn if over a jacket as well as over a shirt and it dosen't bug me, to me it is a lot like a seat belt (which I can't drive without)- I feel almost naked without it :o. only complaint- the vest knocks my hat off when I sit down :grin

not much of a problem considering the alternative)

USCGBoating · 05-30-2007, 06:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chrome Bumper

Not crazy about a pfd that needs regular overhauls or replacement. What is a reasoably comfortable non inflatable type?

Two ways to look at that. Most peopel who have conventional PFD's really never take a look at the lifesaving capabilitis of the garmet. At least with the hybrid inflatables you are inspecting the gramet on a regular basis to make sure that it will work. With conventional PFD's, over time, the foam compresses or degrages and loses its' buoyant properties. fasteners don't work, and the material degrades but it is the old favorite and they will wear it until it falls off of them. Is that safe?

To answer your question, "What is a reasonably comfortable non inflating type?" Pretty simple, one that you will wear, is designed for the environment you intend to use it in and that it fits properly.

Dan

CATCH AND EAT · 05-30-2007, 06:58 AM

Dan, Same goes with inflatables. How many folks do you really think actually inspect their gear like they should. Answer is, same as those that inspect their non-inflatable gear. No disrespect, just stating the facts that we are human and take the easy road when stuff like that pops up.

My gear is all new and I will buy new gear in 2 more years to replace what I have. Vests are cheap, Inflatables are expensive. BTW I have both in case anyone was wondering. And yes I wear both. Wore an inflatable Monday out on the river matter of fact.

12244 · 05-30-2007, 07:07 AM

This one is very comfortable, as you can see, does not get in the way, I almost forget I have this one on.

Chrome Bumper · 05-30-2007, 11:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hunt'nFish

Memories of a certain IFisher who lost his dad on the CR Bar w/ an inflatable comes to mind.
I'm with the rest, hard to beat a proper fitting foam vest. I'm kinda liking my new Mustang Integrity coat. A couple pockets for personal PFD gear like a strobe, whistle and a pop-off flare. Looking to add a handheld VHF but can't find one small enough that is waterproof.
Hunt'nFish

And a bar pilot.

USCGBoating · 05-30-2007, 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CATCH AND EAT

Dan, Same goes with inflatables. How many folks do you really think actually inspect their gear like they should. Answer is, same as those that inspect their non-inflatable gear. No disrespect, just stating the facts that we are human and take the easy road when stuff like that pops up.

My gear is all new and I will buy new gear in 2 more years to replace what I have. Vests are cheap, Inflatables are expensive. BTW I have both in case anyone was wondering. And yes I wear both. Wore an inflatable Monday out on the river matter of fact.

I fully understand that there is a segment of the popultion that will never get the picture but I feel that through education and setting the example we will eventually bridge the gap where this type of behavior is the exception.

Dan

bassin · 05-30-2007, 12:36 PM

One of the reasons I bought the Mustang Integrity coat. It won't do you any good if you don't wear it. The coat I wear for warmth so I have it on.
As a matter of fact, last time out with Odin I had both on. I forgot I had the float coat on. I also have a inflatable automatic that is in the skippers seat for fast slip on if need be.

Freakwater · 05-30-2007, 01:03 PM

I own a Mustang Integrity Coat. Comfortable in the boat, very uncomfortable in the water. It wants to ride up your body a lot. Also, almost impossible to swim more than a couple feet with 30 lbs. of water in each sleeve. I recommend trying it out in the water and learning the various adjustments while in the water.

Freakwater

HOGGEMIN · 05-30-2007, 02:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Freakwater

I own a Mustang Integrity Coat. Comfortable in the boat, very uncomfortable in the water. It wants to ride up your body a lot. Also, almost impossible to swim more than a couple feet with 30 lbs. of water in each sleeve. I recommend trying it out in the water and learning the various adjustments while in the water.

Freakwater

I adjusted mine so it was kind of tight but that is the only way it wont slip up. Once I adjusted the Integrity Coat it fits nicely and does not ride up and doesnt limit movement, Also it floats me nicely.

GoneCoastal · 05-30-2007, 02:26 PM

last night on Deadliest Catch they talked to a commercial guy who hit the water and said he heard bubbles when his vest/suit didn't inflate, found out his CO2 cylinder was not tight.. he started talking about how season to season they use this equipment and no one checks it out and then he must have gotten a hard look from his capt. or the coasty since he pretty much shut up.