Thread: Inflatable pfd

Inflatables are not necessarily a good option in cold weather. The CO2 doesn't fill properly making them less buoyant in cold weather. Some states even mandate that they can't be used below a certain temperature.

Originally Posted by Quackrstackr

Inflatables are not necessarily a good option in cold weather. The CO2 doesn't fill properly making them less buoyant in cold weather. Some states even mandate that they can't be used below a certain temperature.

I have read that some could have trouble if below freezing but then if you are in water below 32 you likley lose consciousness or all but within 15 min. and die within an hour even if still afloat so people need to take fishing in that temperature very seriously regardless of what gear they are wearing and take all safety precautions possible. Really any water temperatures below 60 one should take seriously and use caution because of the increased risk of hypothermia.

True. I duck hunt all winter on KY and Barkley. 15 minutes afloat vs sinking below water can be all the time in the world between saving a life and drowning though. I was just cautioning that inflatables may not be the best option in cold water, especially covered in clothes. They make insulated flotation vests and jackets that are much better options in cold weather and are essentially just like wearing a regular outer garment. Life preservers have come a long way in the last few years.

And as if we needed a reminder:

Kayakers Rescued From Lake Barkley By Boater | WKDZ Radio

Originally Posted by mrdux

Mine is Onyx.

Mrdux can you tell me which model Onyx you are wearing ? With all do respect sir you seem to be a bigger guy then most. My dad is similar in size and I would like to get him one , but cant seem to find one that looks to fit him.

I use a Cabelas 3500 series inflatable vest and I weigh in at about 240 pounds. It has 35 pounds of floatation.
Cabelas now has a 4000 series inflatable that I believe has 40 pounds of floatation.

Originally Posted by lowe rider

I use a Cabelas 3500 series inflatable vest and I weigh in at about 240 pounds. It has 35 pounds of floatation.
Cabelas now has a 4000 series inflatable that I believe has 40 pounds of floatation.

Yep, the 4000 guidewear is 40llb
Just got one this week,I really like the fit, more comfortable than the 3500

Mustang Survival MD518E Elite is mine. I tried arguing to a buddy of mine why I should go cheaper. Weekend fisherman. Not a pro who is on the water every other day. This buddy was saved by his when he came out of his boat and landed next to the prop. He had his kill switch on but the prop was still spinning enough that he was injured severely. The only thing that saved his life was that vest. He Skrd me if I was really injured and sinking would I then worry about spending an extra $100. The answer was obvious.

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