Thread: Auto PFD's.

I am like Justin. The first time I used my Onyx I was all the way home before I realized I still had it on.
I purchased mine at a local shop. I went in to look at them and the owner of the shop said he would match any other store. I told him what BPS was selling them for and he laughed a little and showed my the price sticker and it was $.99 less. I bought it and a replacement kit which is the cylinder and the little dohicky that sets it off when it gets wet. And one last thing - store them INSIDE where they will stay dry. Constant moisture will eventually dissolve the dohicky and you will find your PFD inflated when you go to get it out.

Amazon.com Saw some for $99. I think you still have to have the other type in the boat. As I understand it, if you fall in and it inflates, once you are rescued it no longer qualifies because it has inflated. I still carry the other type in my storage. Just saying.

I would try some on before buying. Some rub the neck. I don't believe they make these for kids. I dunno for sure.

I also wear the Mustang. I got it a BPS this year to replace Sospenders that are 6-7 years old.

Thanks guys for all the info

Just get a couple balloons and tie one to each ear

I have a couple Mustang Bass Models and really like them, they cost a bit more but are comfortable and cool, For me, my fear is getting knocked out if I go overboard so I went with the autoinflate. This model has a green indicator telling you its good to go. also has a manual inflation tube which if I'm knocked out aint gonna help same withthe pull tab.

Only time I have had a problem was when wife wanted to go fishing and I walked her through the PFD fitting and operation. Next thing I knew, she pulled the tab because she wanted to make sure it worked. She got to fish all day with a fully inflated PFD. I figured it was a good test to make sure it did not deflate over time which is a standard test that you are supposed to do periodically. BTW it stayed fully inflated.

Typically manual inflate are considered type 3 and autoinflate are type 5
The following link explains the rating system
USCG PFD Categories - Types I-V

Since my Mustangs are getting older, I have been considering going to a type 1 and keep searching until I find one that is comfortable to wear. Reason being is I like storage pockets.

Originally Posted by CrappiePappy

Just be aware that you have to have them on at all times (in some states), in order for them to be considered as PFD's in the eyes of the law. If you're not wearing them when seen/checked by the CO, and you don't have another PFD within easy access ... you can be ticketed for not having a PFD for each person on board your boat.
Auto inflating PFD's only count when being worn, according to my Mustang Auto PFD.

The Illinois Handbook of Boating Laws lists the auto inflating PFD as a Type III ... but, my Auto PFD lists itself as a Type V. ... so you might check with your F&W people as to the discrepancy.

... cp

cp, you have to wear the V in Virginia to be legal. The II & III you don't have to wear.

Originally Posted by Don G

cp, you have to wear the V in Virginia to be legal. The II & III you don't have to wear.

Yep, same here in Ky.

... cp