Our choice for gas

I owe Lamar and
Lee Ann a helluva
lot, so they always get a free plug

Cylinders

In so far as most cave divers own only a single set of doubles, it makes sense to get the right ones the first time.

• No matter how bad your gas consumption, there is no upside to getting substantially larger cylinders than what your buddies are likely to use, as you will be limiting your penetration to one third of their starting volume, regardless of how much gas you have.
• By the same token, you don’t want to end up with cylinders that are substantially smaller than your buddies,’ or no one will want to be stuck diving with you.

The most popular size cylinders among Florida cave divers are eight-inch diameter, 15-liter (liquid capacity) steels. Low-pressure models are rated for 95 cubic feet at 2,640 psi; the newer “E” series are typically rated for around 120 cubic feet at 3,442 psi.

Avoid the so-called Genesis alloy cylinders. Not only do these require proprietary valves, the alloy is more easily prone to rust.

Regulators »

[Top of Page]

Here’s a good story that explains why you need Cave Diver training

Another reason to get
your Cave Diver cert: Going with Connie to Mexico

Our recommendation
for manatee tours