WTB: PFD

Looking for a PFD. I am 6'3, 250 pounds, so I guess XL? Hoping to pick one up before Sunday if possible. Hoping to save a little money by buying a used one. My price range is about $75.

Jeff

Here's my 2-cents, your mileage may vary...

A PFD is not something I want to skimp on.  There are at least a dozen threads on this board where NCKA'ers had some close calls at the Bean, and other central & north coast location, spending some serious time in the water, by themselves... their PDF's (and calm heads and a bit of good fortune) no doubt saved their lives. 

I am by no means an experienced waterman, expert kayak fisherman, expert kayaker, or expert fisherman, but I am an expert on safety and calculated risk, and I know to respect the big blue and not skimp on safety gear or safety training...  Those threads concerning other NCKA'ers near-tragedies resonated with me and I bought the best PFD for me, the best VHF radio, a decent wetsuit (because I read that waders = bad idea if there is a beach break)... I hope for the best, but plan for the worst.  The last thing I want is to end up endangering other people’s lives because my poor judgment necessitates a rescue situation.

My suggestion is to not let price figure into your decision at all... even the most expensive PFD won't be more than double what you want to spend... then again, could be that the best PFD for you is on sale for $75, but that should not be the reason you choose it. 

Have fun, and stay safe!

  Backcountry

p.s. To all the folks that have posted their "I spent time in the water and it was hairy" stories, thank you... sharing those real-life annecdotes saves lives.

For $78 you can get a brand new Extrasport Osprey PFD from REI. It's what I use and I've noticed from pics and get togethers that many other folks on the site use that same PFD too. I'd go the brand new pfd route so that you know exactly what you are getting.

Actually I just did a quick search and found it for $70 at campmor 
http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___99593?CS_003=2477120&engine=googlebase&utm_term=99593&utm_medium=CSE&CS_010=99593&utm_source=GoogleBase

I am planning on going to REI tomorrow anyways, if a good deal pops up on here, good, if not I will be buying a new one tomorrow. I hope they will let me sit in the kayaks and let me go through the motions while wearing the PFD 

As has been noted, the Extrasport Osprey and Sabre are good PFD's,and both at a great price.  The Sabre (which I own, but no longer use) is REALLY comfortable, but doesn't work with the uber-pimp highback seat I just got.  My new PFD was recommended by Mooch, and is the Kokatat Bahia Sport, also available at REI...  I think it was about $90... not quite as comfortable as the Sabre due to the increased flotation in the front to accomadate the highback compatable back, but tollerable.