Atomic SS1 Octopus
Divers have been using this combination Inflator /Regulator type of product now for almost twenty years, and the concept has proved itself a convenient and effective alternative to the dedicated octopus second stage. There are advantages and disadvantages to both systems that should be reviewed carefully before making your buying decision.
The Advantages
The primary advantage to the SS1 is combining 2 products into one to reduce the overall bulk and weight of your dive gear. The SS1 is only slightly larger than a standard BC inflator yet has a back-up breathing regulator built-in. There is only one low-pressure hose from your first stage that feeds both the BC inflator and the back-up regulator.
A secondary advantage to the SS1 is its location. The SS1 is fixed to you BC and falls over the left shoulder. It remains there and used throughout the dive to control buoyancy. Since the location is fixed and it is constantly being used, the diver becomes quickly accustomed to its’ location and is able to locate it easily in the event that air sharing is required.
Air Sharing
There is one important difference in air sharing with an SS1 over a standard Octo second stage. If a diver wearing an SS1 needs to share air with another diver, his primary regulator is given to the person out of air and the donor breathes from the SS1. This is for two important reasons. The SS1 is attached to the short BC hose and will not easily reach the out of air diver. The SS1must also be kept by the owner to control his buoyancy and maintain control of the situation.
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