Bailout bottles are a subject that Scuba divers have relatively strong opinions about. They constantly debate the benefits of a bailout bottle over a pony tank and vice versa. Bailout bottles provide a diver with a redundant air supply that will enable an emergency ascent from a depth in case of a problem or shortage of air in the primary air tank. A Bailout bottle can be used by overhead environment divers, wreck divers, and recreational divers alike, providing a compact air source for emergencies.
Bailout bottle systems are found in two types:
- Integrated the first and second stage regulators into the bottle.
- Stand-alone tank with a standard first-stage and second-stage regulator.
H2Odyssey Extra Air Source 3
The H2Odyssey Extra Air Source 3 is an integrated first and second-stage regulator system that fits onto a bailout tank of varying capacity. The First-Stage Regulator (RGV3), which is a balanced diaphragm, environmentally sealed unit made from forged brass, threads directly into the neck of a cylinder, eliminating the need for or bulk of a cylinder valve; it also gives you the latitude of selecting the size of cylinder to be utilized. Second-Stage Regulator is a bright yellow, covered, dependable, simple downstream demand valve design that connects via a vertical/ horizontal swivel.
The H2Odyssey EAS3 can be purchased in a kit containing a six-cubic-foot tank measuring approximately 3 inches in diameter and 12 inches in height. This tank will provide enough air to get you from 132 feet to the surface.
H2Odyssey Extra Air Source 2
The H2Odyssey EAS2 is an emergency air source system that features a (RG2V) dependable balanced piston first stage, unlike the EAS3, which uses a diaphragm first stage. Like the EAS3, the First-Stage Regulator threads directly into the neck of a cylinder, eliminating the need for a bulk cylinder valve. It also allows you to select the cylinder size to be utilized.
The Extra Air Source 2 Kit includes the following:
- H2Odyssey Extra Air Source Balanced 1st Stage, with Station Kit
- 6 cu.ft Tank
- Pressure Gauge
- EAS Bag
Also available is the GPD H2Odyssey Quick Release EAS Bag for a six cu ft Tank for $7.99, which allows you to mount the bailout bottle onto your main tank or BCD for easy access.
