Product Reviews Facts and Notes

Whether you’re new to scuba diving or a diving nut, you want to be sure the scuba regulator you have is top notch. There are differences in any scuba regulator and tons to consider such as warm water regulators, cold-water models, and ones that will work for any dive. Let’s look at what’s new, what are musts for diving regulators, and what’s a surprising alternative.

What’s New in Regulators?

During 2008, the technologically advanced carbon fiber regulator was introduced. It was lightweight and claimed to be the most wanted for years. So high in performance although very compact, the second stage case for the carbon fiber regulator came in approximately 65% lighter than its metal cousins.

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?

One of the most important things that divers look for in regulators is durability. Regulators like the Sherwood Oasis, a good warm water regulator, need to be tested for durability, service hours, annual servicing, corrosion issues and peak performance.Since the year 2005, there has been a fast increase in the advancement of diving regulators. However, like any good piece of equipment, you should follow the manufacturers recommended care procedures to ensure your model lasts.

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.

A top pick for 2008, the SR1 by Sherwood boasts a 360-degree swivel which works with both a yoke and DIN attachment. With its astonishing two high-pressure ports and five low-pressure ports, it is excellent for all-weathering diving. This scuba regulator has it all but the 360-degree swivel was remarkable and is a must to us all.

Alternative in Regulators

The alternate inflation regulators are extremely functional and are integrated into your power inflator, getting rid of the traditional octopus hose. These were a challenge to build because of their small housings geared at keeping them ergonomically correct-but with today’s technology, they have built some good ones. Most inflation regulators on today’s market have gotten a nod from some experts and we expect to see 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.