Opinion

[Shocky]

AL 80 vs Steel 72 for use as a "buddy" bottle?
Thanks
John

[Sludge]

Aluminum 72. The more neutral the better, and the Luxfer 72 is completely neutral full.

IMO, the steel 72 is too negative. Although I have been known to use a steel 51 pumped to 3600psi. Seventy cubic feet will get me out from a long way in, and the 51 is so small you almost don't know it's there.

[Shocky]

Thanks Sludge. I've been using a AL 40 which I think is OK in a high flow cave since I don't go too far back (Maple Leaf at best). I have a good steel 72 hanging around but perhaps I should invest in the larger AL. Sure do like that 40! Had a great time seeing everyone at Ginnie this past weekend. Hope to make the NACD seminal later this month.
John

[FW]

Thanks Sludge. I've been using a AL 40 which I think is OK in a high flow cave since I don't go too far back (Maple Leaf at best). I have a good steel 72 hanging around but perhaps I should invest in the larger AL. Sure do like that 40! Had a great time seeing everyone at Ginnie this past weekend. Hope to make the NACD seminal later this month.
John

You don't have an AL80? those are the most common tanks to use as stages. They aren't a lot more negative than an AL72, and a whole lot less negative than a steel 72.

If you go sidemout, then you won't need anything else

[DA Aquamaster]

Basically what sludge said - I use Hymark AL72's. They are a copy of the old Luxfer AL72.

Steel 72s vary a bit based on when they were made and who made them but most are too negative to be comfortable as a stage or buddy bottle.

AL 80s are a good second choice, but the AL 72's 6.9" diameter is nice for a buddy bottle.

[Shocky]

Thanks DA. Do you or anyone else know where I can purchase one here in South Florida?
John

[MedCop]

I sold off most of my AL80's and purchased Hymark AL72's. They are a great swimming tank for stages, deco, bailout..whatever.

[Shocky]

Thanks guys for all the good advice. AL 72 is on the way and hopefully will be here by the NACD seminar. Look forward to meeting some of you.
John

[crpearson]

AL 72s are WONDERFUL! They hold nearly as much as an 80, but swim like a 40. When I bough mine they were pretty tough to find... Looks like they are a little more common now.

[Shocky]

I don't know about being common. Force E ordered it for me at DEMA. We will see how long it takes.
Thanks Again
John