I'm looking to get a decent 6' DSMB, and a spool. I'll be diving mostly in Florida with a few dives in Lake Michigan. All dives will be within recreational depths.
Thanks in advance.
Posted: 8/30/2018 9:19:28 PM EDT
[#1]
If you can find this OMS spool in black, get it. I have it in pink.
The center acts like a brake. Squeeze on it to slow spool down. I have a pink 6ft OMS SMB
Halcyon DAM. Best SMB's around. They're more expensive than other SMB's, but well worth the cost, especially since you'll be diving in cold water.
Any delrin spool will work for you. You don't want to get a metal spool for shooting an SMB.
Posted: 8/31/2018 1:27:17 PM EDT
[#3]
Flurda boy here..
Use this one. Prefer open bottom to deploy using octo. Had it for over 3yrs and is holding up well. This gets deployed for all my local drift diving at depth.
I use a cheapo delrin spool. I have a ratchet reel that I will be using on next outing.
Posted: 8/31/2018 9:01:03 PM EDT
[#4]
Any thoughts whether orange or yellow is better for visibility? Also, has anyone used the SMB from DAN?
Thanks for your recommendations.
Posted: 9/1/2018 8:25:59 AM EDT
[#5]
Quote History
Quoted: Halcyon DAM. Best SMB's around. They're more expensive than other SMB's, but well worth the cost, especially since you'll be diving in cold water.
Any delrin spool will work for you. You don't want to get a metal spool for shooting an SMB.
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That's what I use in the 4.5 foot length. It's a great SMB.
Don't get wrapped up in paying fancy high prices for a spool. Make sure the opening is big enough for your fingers if you're wearing gloves.
Posted: 9/1/2018 8:59:41 AM EDT
[#6]
Quote History
Quoted: Any thoughts whether orange or yellow is better for visibility?
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This is subjective and the color of the water and ambient light will effect visability.
I have a yellow one. When in a boat and looking at the string of smb's scattered on the surface, the yellow ones really pop.....to me
Where in FL do you dive?
I am in the Jupiter area. You mentioned a 6' smb. Stick with that length. 4' will disappear in swells. Subtract a foot off the length when you are hanging on it...that's 3' above water line....that is assuming you get it full of air
Posted: 9/1/2018 4:40:13 PM EDT
[#7]
Quote History
Quoted: Any thoughts whether orange or yellow is better for visibility? Also, has anyone used the SMB from DAN?
Thanks for your recommendations.
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The one I have is orange on one side and yellow on the other. I prefer the orange if going all one color.
I prefer the type that are not open on the bottom, but use a valve to inflate.
I have a simple delrin spool with yellow line. 100 feet.