2012 Gear Buyers Guide Regulators: IST R860

IST R860

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THE BASICS

» Balanced-diaphragm first stage based on high-flow valve system

» Fitted with large-bore, high-spec hose

» Unique second-stage case shapes create pressure drop at mouthpiece

» Anti-freeze model available

REVIEW

With full CE certification and performance that is on par with the finest regulators on the market, the R860 is well suited for cold water, deep dives and demanding profiles, and can be fine-tuned for smooth, responsive gas delivery in more-relaxed conditions.

CONTACT istsports.com

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60:Second ScubaLab: Atomic Aquatics T3 Reg

Atomic Aquatics’ new signature regulator, the high performance T- 3, features new ultra light component parts. The balanced piston first stage is precision machined from solid titanium billet, and its yoke is made using the least amount of material possible. Combine that with component parts in the pneumatically balanced second stage that have also been redesigned to save weight, and you end up with the lightest and most comfortable full-sized regulator around.

60:Second ScubaLab - SCUBAPRO MK17/G260 REGULATOR

SCUBAPRO'S Mark 17 balanced diaphragm first stage is designed for harsh environments and cold water. The pneumatically balanced G-2-60 second stage is made with metal components in the inlet tube, orifice, inhalation control knob and hose connector to optimize cold-water performance. It is quipped with both a VIVA switch and inhalation control knob, and the left-right hose attachment makes it easy to rig for tech diving

Editor's Pick Spotlight, Regulators: Atomic Aquatics T3

This caviar-class titanium reg continues to set the bar for cutting-edge features and superb breathing performance. The T3 comes with lighter component parts and a new three-year, 300-dive service-interval lifetime warranty, plus a deluxe padded travel bag.

60:Second ScubaLab - SCUBAPRO MK11/R195 Regulator

Scubapro has taken its time-proven Mark 11 balanced diaphragm first stage and teamed it up with a brand new second stage, the R- 195. The R-195 is based on Scubapro’s classic R-190, which enjoyed a well-earned reputation for reliability. The R-195 continues in this tradition, but is built with modern materials and offers additional features. Combining a classic downstream valve with a large diaphragm and center-case purge button, this reg comes with a dive/pre-dive switch that’s shaped and sized for easy grabbing and helps prevent surface free-flows.

60:Second ScubaLab - Subgear SG500 Regulator

Subgear’s SG500 has been given a new name, but underneath this fresh moniker is the same high performing reg that earned a Best Buy rating in a major ScubaLab regulator review. In real-world diving it’s a sweet breather in all diving positions and dry as well. With its low work of breathing, surprising amount of reserve capacity and a solid track record for its in-water work, the SG500 is a proven performer.

5 Easy Steps for Maintaining Your Reg

A modern scuba diving regulator is an extremely reliable mechanism. So reliable, in fact, that keep on delivering air year after year. But you can do a few simple things to help ensure your reg's performance. Here are our tips, plus the latest regs on dive store shelves today.

5 Things To Love About Owning Your Own Gear

1. Owning your own Wetsuit. What’s better than wearing a comfortable warmer that molds to your body shape like a second skin? No more squeezing into rental suits that are long in the legs and short in the torso. No more having to constantly readjust your ballast weight to match each rental suit’s buoyancy characteristics. Oh yeah, and no more wondering if that foreign pee smell is coming from the suit, or is just your imagination.

60:Second ScubaLab - Cressi XS Compact/MC9 reg

Cressi’s XS Compact/MC9 is designed for all divers, but is especially well-suited to the traveling diver. The hyper-balanced diaphragm MC9 first stage has a small, chromium-plated brass body that’s protected by a special elastomer skin. The XS Compact second stage is ultra-light and comes with a large, easy-to-use purge cover and a dive/pre-dive lever. The reg offers a choice of purge cover colors and is available in yoke or DIN versions.

Editor's Pick May 2012 - Regulators: Mares Instinct

TOP FEATURES-New second stage shape with angled diaphragm for improved performance-Lateral exhaust tee reduces exhalation resistance and disperses bubbles-Mares’ VAD system reduces inhalation effort-12S first stage includes four LP portsBOTTOM LINETraveling divers will appreciate the Instinct’s lightweight build and photographers who battle errant bubbles can benefit from the side-exhaust.CONTACT mares.com