Smaller SMBs from Carter

[jagfish]

In search of a smallish utility SMB for training and to carry every dive, I struck upon a few possibilities and thought I’d pass them on. I’ve been investigating alternatives to the 3 foot Halcyon. Carter SMBs are a bit wider than the smallest Halcyon so they are a little longer when folded, but gives Carter the visibility advantage.


The smallest is actually listed as a spearfishing float on their website It is oral inflate only, and folds nice and small. The designation is:

Carter SFF CBFF-25 4 inches x 40 inches


The next size up is a Carter custom that is really slick. This one happens to be orange, but can be ordered in any color. It has both oral fill tube and self-sealing flapper on the bottom for filling with second stage. These flapper valves seal off really nicely; I never thought they’d he so airtight.
The is a great unit for training since divers can practice both oral and second stage inflation, and it still rolls down really small. Designation:

Carter PF CBPF-30org 4 inches x 50 inches


This last unit is probably bigger than I would use for my every dive carry, but it certainly has a nice balance of visibility and stowability. This SMB also has both oral and flapper valve.

Carter PF CBPF-35 4 inches x 72 inches

[Doc Intrepid]

Thanks, Jag. I may have to pick up one of the largest ones to give it a try when I start diving a wetsuit. (With my drysuit its just as easy to use an LP hose to inflate closed-circuit bags...)