Co2 pfd?

Hi guys,

As a newbie I want to know what you guys think about the co2 inflation vests. I see a lot of flyfisherman with them on.

Thanks

we also use them to keep some must haves with us in case we get seperated from the boat...radio, whistle, knife, etc.

The CO2 ones don't have any pockets. Also the "auto inflate" may be overkill if you just fall in....I'd stick with a good

I'd stick with a good

a good what?? please tell....I'm DYING to know!!

I agree though, a CO2 vest in the kayak is not necessary, it could inflate when you don't need it to (like if you get splashed in the surf zone but are fine in the yak) then you gotta buy a refill.  just buy a normal PFD that has good

If you get one make sure you get one that has the CM Hammar inflator which is triggered by water pressure not moisture. I think with the inflatables you have to wear it all the time the regular ones just have to be on the boat. Also the inflatable ones don't provide as much warmth if your in the water for awhile. I think for small lakes and rivers or if you are wearing a good wetsuit they would be fine.

Pockets are kind of fundamental eh? So I scored a free conventional pfd w/ lots of pockets and a high back. Thanks to mudshark for the score. Fits like a glove.

I dunno. It's just my hangup but I don't like putting all my bets on one device functioning when I need it most. Granted we don't use our PFDs every time like a parachute for sky diving or air tank for scuba diving but I want to know things that are likely to be necessary for my survival will work if I need them to. I prefer an already-inflated PFD over one I need to hope inflates the one time my life might depend on it. When I fish a float tube, I still use my kayaking PFD—already inflated—one less thing to fail when the chips are down.  I've considered relaxing that for inland waters but I don't find the PFD that uncomfortable frankly.

I agree. inflatables are not for me. whenever i see a kayaker wearing one, i always think it looks weird. Like a fat guy in a thong.  No pockets, no thermal protection, could leak, could go off on a simple roll in the surf.

.....fishing PFD

So I scored a free conventional pfd w/ lots of pockets and a high back.

Lots of pockets aren't necessarily better either!  People tend to stuff them too full and then upon reentry into the kayak have a hard time because they get hung up as you try to drag yourself back inside your boat.

So I scored a free conventional pfd w/ lots of pockets and a high back.

Lots of pockets aren't necessarily better either!  People tend to stuff them too full and then upon reentry into the kayak have a hard time because they get hung up as you try to drag yourself back inside your boat.

ditto....like 3 is plenty.

And remember, everything you add to a PFD reduces it's floatation and get's in the way as you struggle to re-board your boat. May not seem like much in still waters but in the surf zone or a stormy situation—which is probably why you "de-kayaked" anyway, it can be a big deal. A very big deal.

I agree. inflatables are not for me. whenever i see a kayaker wearing one, i always think it looks weird. Like a fat guy in a thong.  No pockets, no thermal protection, could leak, could go off on a simple roll in the surf.

That was funny....thanks

Good thoughts on pockets. I see how too much stuff could get in the way or snag up on other equipment.

I have both styles and prefer the Co2 over the standard. Both are Kokatat, Ronin Pro and SeaO2. The SeaO2 has a "pull" trigger and only engaged if the rip cord is pulled. Has 7.5 lbs floatation that is increased to 22.5 lbs when Co2 engaged or manually inflated, which I believe is among the highest levels. Ronin Pro has 17 lbs floatation. Can be manually inflated in case of malfunction of Co2 cartridge. Has 1 pocket for radio, 1 zippered and open pocket/pouch which I find to be more than ample and most times empty except for the radio. When inflated about the same bulk as the Ronin, it's a pfd not an airbag. I inflate manually and release to check seals occasionally to ensure proper working order.

Cost for cartridges is about $3.99 and readily available from any bicycle store. They are the same cartridges used for Co2 bicycle pumps. Advantages are lighter weight, more comfortable while seated, more range of motion if I had to swim any distance or if I paddled (I use a Hobie) and more comfortable to wear in warmer weather. When otw I always keep my pfd on. Disadvantage initial cost and cost of ownership.

I provided a link in case interested. Definitely not a thong, but a well thought out piece of equipment. Since getting the SeaO2 the Ronin sits in the garage collecting dust.

http://www.kokatat.com/products/pfd/sea-o2.html

That SeaO2 actually looks like a nice compromise! I'd like to see a pic when inflated. My only concern would be getting back in the yak with it inflated. But otherwise i like the look and features. for warm wx it would be nice

I have both styles and prefer the Co2 over the standard. Both are Kokatat, Ronin Pro and SeaO2. The SeaO2 has a "pull" trigger and only engaged if the rip cord is pulled. Has 7.5 lbs floatation that is increased to 22.5 lbs when Co2 engaged or manually inflated, which I believe is among the highest levels. Ronin Pro has 17 lbs floatation. Can be manually inflated in case of malfunction of Co2 cartridge. Has 1 pocket for radio, 1 zippered and open pocket/pouch which I find to be more than ample and most times empty except for the radio. When inflated about the same bulk as the Ronin, it's a pfd not an airbag. I inflate manually and release to check seals occasionally to ensure proper working order.

Cost for cartridges is about $3.99 and readily available from any bicycle store. They are the same cartridges used for Co2 bicycle pumps. Advantages are lighter weight, more comfortable while seated, more range of motion if I had to swim any distance or if I paddled (I use a Hobie) and more comfortable to wear in warmer weather. When otw I always keep my pfd on. Disadvantage initial cost and cost of ownership.

I provided a link in case interested. Definitely not a thong, but a well thought out piece of equipment. Since getting the SeaO2 the Ronin sits in the garage collecting dust.

http://www.kokatat.com/products/pfd/sea-o2.html

Man that thing looks pretty sweet and a good idea, with both the co2 and conventional flotation. I was expecting to to cost a lot more...found one online for $184.  Their website says it is the only co2 approved by the