ClassAction:
Thanks for the info. I'll definitely look into this next summer. I noticed (on your website) that you require a pony bottle or doubles for anything deeper than 80'. Could you tell me if there's any traing required for using a pony? Do you learn this in the AOW class? Also, how does someone make the transition into doubles? Thanks a lot!
There is not that much too know using a pony bottle. But first consider this:
1. At 130 feet how much air do you need to do a safe ascent and a safety stop? Review your SAC rate as this will help you determine tank size.
2. Pony bottle attachments are mind boggling. Ease of changing tanks is a big factor.
3. Pony bottles affect your underwater buoyancy and trim.
4. You will need another regulator and at a minimum a SPG.
5. What type of gas to use?
6. Strongly recommend that you practice at Dutch Springs diving with a pony tank before using off NJ.
For the price of a really nice pony bottle set up, an H-value with dual first stages will suffice as a redundant air source too. Either value can be shut down in case of an air emergency. This works especially well if you are diving with larger tanks (and for NJ I strongly 95 to 120 Cu.Ft. tanks when diving singles). Diving this way will not upset your trim and when the boat is rocking, a pony bottle can be a real pain to change over to another tank.
The Doubles are the ultimate redundant air source. This requires a considerable reconfiguration of gear and much practice to adjust for trim and twice the buoyancy shift.
See your LDS or someone you really trust who has experience in this area.