Smb, Dsmb..?

[iocara]

HI,

I am about to purchase a SMB, and would like to know if anyone could recommend one. I mean I have looked and apparently it is advised to get one with a sealing bottom to stop the air comming out at the surface, or one with the line attached, or a dump valve. I appreciate that these should only be used for emergancies or when the need for a deco stop is required during a boat dive, which is why it is imperative that I purchase the correct one.

There appear to be so many out there, and appear to do virtually the same things, so whay are the prices night and day, or am I missing something

G )

 

[londonsean69]

I use the Buddy self sealing DSMB, which is great because it has an overpressure valve, and seals itself. Therefore, I can inflate at the surface for a drift dive, or deploy it from underwater on a wreck dive.
I also use the MGE mini ratchet reel, which, with 40m of line, is plenty for my current style of diving. I think SMB's which are rolled up with the cord rolled around them are just asking to get tangled.
Make sure when you do get one, to get someone to show you how to use it, and have a few practice goes in shallowish water, because the reel can sometimes jam up, therefore dragging you with it.

Hope this helps