Thread: which life vest

Originally Posted by CrappiePappy

You also have to take into account the "law" of your state, as it pertains to inflatable PFDs. Here in KY, an inflatable only counts as a PFD ... IF you are wearing it. Take it off and you'd better have a regular "life jacket" PFD within reach/sight !!

What CP says is true - BUT - I bought an automatic inflatable and the first time I used it I put it on as I was launching the boat for a test (I had raised the motor a bit). I did not realize I had it on until I had gotten back home after an hour on the water, retrieving the boat and driving home.

So I put mine on when I get in the boat and leave it on all day. Not uncomfortable at all. My regular flotation vest came off as soon as the gas engine stopped and stayed off till it started back up.

I like mine so much I got a non-automatic for when I use my canoe or float-tube where I may intentionally take a soaking.

Originally Posted by Clint

What CP says is true - BUT - I bought an automatic inflatable and the first time I used it I put it on as I was launching the boat for a test (I had raised the motor a bit). I did not realize I had it on until I had gotten back home after an hour on the water, retrieving the boat and driving home.

So I put mine on when I get in the boat and leave it on all day. Not uncomfortable at all. My regular flotation vest came off as soon as the gas engine stopped and stayed off till it started back up.

I like mine so much I got a non-automatic for when I use my canoe or float-tube where I may intentionally take a soaking.

Which one do you have?

Originally Posted by tncrappiebass

Which one do you have?

My automatic is an Onyx and my manual is a Cabela's store brand.
I checked prices and they did not vary much so I got my auto at a local shop (I shop local when I can).
My Cabela's I got when my brother passed.

I have backup cartridges for both of them stored INDOORS. The emphasis is because so store their vests and replacement cartridges on board and find them inflated or the pill dissolved. In the autos there is a pill that dissolves when you fall in and it gets wet that sets off the CO2 cylinder to inflate the vest.

Cartridges need to be replaced every five years. May not work if outdated.

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Thanks for the replies guys. I just ordered me an Onyx Automatic/Manual life vest with an extra cartridge. I researched them and saw mostly 4-5 star reviews. The price is about $85 plus tax. I plan on doing more fall and winter fishing this year and have came to the conclusion that I really need to wear a life vest all the time, so hopefully this will fit the bill. Will probably try out in our pool when I get it just to set my mind at ease.