reViews
Atomic Smoke on
A 2007 Testers’ choice winner for its near-
Atomic Frameless Mask
the Water SplitFin
perfect blend of power and agility, this
fin not only delivers serious performance,
The Atomic Aquatics Frameless mask was
This impressive new fin gets its name from
but it looks cool doing so. Named for the
such a hit that divers were soon asking
the smoky transparent panels on its long
smoky transparent panels on its long split
for a smaller version—and they got it. The
split blades. They are a bit more flexible
blades, the fin burns the competition for
new Medium-Fit Frameless uses the same
than previous versions of the Atomic
sheer speed and acceleration, plus it has no
large Ultraclear single lens, surrounded by
Splitfin, but still generated the highest thrust
equal when it comes to pegging the thrust
a soft silicone skirt (black or clear). The only
measurement of all the fins in this review.
meter. Down on the reefs, it’s nimble and
difference is the size of the skirt, about a
The Smoke on the Water fins also tied for
responsive to minor course corrections, and
quarter-inch narrower than the original.
the fastest speed score among open-heel
its firm rubber side rails provide stability with
fins and slashed through the slalom course
all kicking styles. Uniquely designed spring
THE BEST GEAR OF 2007
with a top-three performance. In ergonomic
SCUBA DIVING MAGAZINE
straps with oversized finger grips make
tests, it was one of only two open-heel fins
DECEMBER 2007
donning and doffing a breeze. Simply put:
to earn an Excellent rating from test divers
____________________________
This is an all-around great fin.
for Acceleration, and it also earned the
highest score possible for ease of donning
The shape of the Atomic Frameless lens
THE BEST GEAR OF 2007
and doffing, thanks to the new spring straps
was computer-designed to maximize field
SCUBA DIVING MAGAZINE
with oversized finger grip. Firm rubber rails
of view both side-to-side and vertically,
DECEMBER 2007
produce great power with little effort and
and no mask tested here could beat it. In
____________________________
provide stability with all kick styles.
both the full-sized version and the slightly
narrower Medium Fit version, we measured
TEST DIVER COMMENTS: “The
Atomic Liquid Blue SplitFin
an impressive 85 degrees of horizontal vision
perfect balance of comfort, speed and
This new fin shares the spotlight as this
and 75 degrees vertical.
maneuverability”... “An all-around great fin
year's best overall fin. Named the Liquid
made better with the spring strap”... “Power
BOTTOM LINE: This is our overall favorite
Blue because of its translucent look, this fin
and control: What more can you say?”
frameless mask. It fits great, has a wide field
is identical in shape to the original Atomic
of view, great squeeze-tab buckles, and it
18 NEW FINS - SCUBALAB REVIEW
Aquatics SplitFin, but is made of a slightly
folds up flat in a cool low-profile case.
SCUBA DIVING MAGAZINE
softer high-performance thermoplastic
NOVEMBER 2007
rubber material. This makes it a little lighter
10 FRAMELESS MASKS
than the original and gives it a bit more
SCUBALAB REVIEW
snap. That said, the performance of the
SCUBA DIVING MAGAZINE
two fins is nearly identical. The Liquid Blue
FEBRUARY 2008
provides acceleration when it's time to go
turbo, but is also very responsive. The Liquid
Blue is just as stable as the original SplitFin,
and shares the same buckle system.
One of three fins rates "very good" for
maneuverability.
FOOT ROCKETS - SCUBALAB FIN TEST
RODALE’S SCUBA DIVING MAGAZINE
JULY 2003
fins
When ScubaLab reviews fins, we go all out. This year’s fin test, hosted by Capt. Don’s Habitat in Bonaire, was no exception,
lights
As we demonstrated in our January review of dive knives and our September review of dive
requiring 12 test divers and five test supervisors. Over the course of a week, we gathered objective performance data on lights, these two categories of gear have undergone a renaissance of late. The rusty dive sword
the speed, thrust and maneuverability of 18 new fin designs. We also had multiple test divers provide their opinions of of yesteryear has been replaced by a new breed of smaller, lighter cutting tools with sharper
the fit, comfort, features and ergonomic performance based on real-world use. The complete results are now available edges and superior corrosion resistance. And dive lights now use power-regulating circuitry,
online at
www.scubadiving.com/gear, but here are some of the top performers that impressed our staff.
knives
high-watt LEDs and intense HIDs to crank out more light and
provide longer burn times than ever before. Check out these
staff favorites, then see the full reviews online at www.scubadiv-
ing.com/gear.
masks &
more
fins
When ScubaLab reviews fins, we go all out. This year’s fin test, hosted by Capt. Don’s Habitat in Bonaire, was no exception,
lights
Dive Knives
As we demonstrated in our January review of div
»
e knives and our September review of dive
SPYDERCO SALT SERIES. These
requiring 12 test divers and five test supervisors. Over the course of a week, we gathered objective performance data on lights, these two categories of gear have undergonceom ap raecnt afoisldsiangn ckeni voefs lsalitdee. iTnthoe a nruy sBtCy dive sword
the speed, thrust and maneuverability of 18 new fin designs. We also had multiple test divers provide their opinions of of yesteryear has been replaced by a new breed of pocsmallerket and u, slighter e H-1 stacutting inless-steetools l bladewith s sharper
the fit, comfort, features and ergonomic performance based on real-world use. The complete results are now available edges and superior corrosion resistance. And div
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regulators
online at
www.scubadiving.com/gear, but here are some of the top performers that impressed our staff. high-watt LEDs and intense HIDs to crank out more light and
Our 2007 regulator reviews (primary regs in July and alternate Sherwood Scuba Gemini
Dive Lights
side of metal wire and come in a variety of
inflator regs in August) showcased one of the most Ocoutstanding eanic Viper Mares The Gemini is a new star among alternate inflator regs, and for good Atomic Aquatics provide longer burbnla tdiem deess igthnsa. n$ 7e7v.9e5r tbo e$f8o9r.9e5.. Cwhwewc.k out these
crop of new breathers we’ve ever evaluated. As a group, they
The Viper proves you Mares Avanti Quattro Ex
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» UK C8 eLED PLUS. The new C8 eLED plus combines
staff favorites, then
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earned more Excellent ratings on the breathing machine than any eviews
» UK Bonline LUE TAat NwwwG TI
ing machine scores in August’s review of inflator regs. In fact, it was only two 5-watt high-intensity LED bulbs to produce a strong focused .scubadiv-
test group in recent memory. Several featured radical new designs and features, and some donintr’t oduced have to spend a lot Superchannel If you like to stoanye ofn tw toh uen itcsu tets-ted thBiat wao-Fs able tin Po surviver ao ll four of our breathing Wa t e r
knivbeam. UK has developed a “through the lens”e heat sink thas
DROP PONT. You can’t go wrong with
t keeps
ing.com/gear.
new materials in order to improve comfort, performance and corrosion resistance. If you’roef i nm thoe nmearyk ett o get a great Fullfoot ting-edge of finm adcehisnieg tens,t st, haned in realC--worSeld useri-teest dsivers reported it breathed A 2007 Testers’ Choice this traditional leg-mounted dive knife,
for a new regulator, now is a great time to buy. Here are some we consider standouts, but be sure to as well as some primary regs. It also does a great job as a BC power the bulbs cool and burning brighter underwater. A locking switch
fin. This kicker is designed A 2007 Testers’ Choice, Quattro Excel is your fin. It For close to a decade, winner for its near-perfect which features a rust-free titanium blade
read both full reports at
www.scubadiving.com/gear/regulators.
inflator, thanks to a slim profile and diver-friendly buttons that make
offers high and low power options for extended burn time (up to
! T O M I C ! Q U A T I C S
light and comfortable from this super-kicker delivered uses Mares’ Channaeslc eTnht crounstrto l smoowthe a’nvde e assey.e Anll itnh aell, aB wioel-l-Fdiense rved 2007 Bebstl end of power and agility, and multiple cutting edges. The comfort-
3 0 % % $
Bu y . $200.
www.sherwoodscuba.com. 10 hours), and the light comes with a pistol-grip handle, lanyard
) . - 0 ( NEED BETTER
Atomic Aquatics ST1
! 4 / - ) # ! 1 5a !w 4in )n #ing 3 combination chart-topping performance Technology, which com- Pro change colors, blade this fin not only delivers VISION IN A LIGHT- able, contoured handle provides an excel-
3 M O K E O N T H E 7 A T E R
3 M O K E O N T H E 7 A T E R
and eight C-cell batteries. All this and a low MSRP WmEIGaHdT, LeOW t-VhOLeUM CE 8
En route to earning a Testers’ Choice nod in this year’s review, the oSTf1 m praovteedr ials, all at a win- when it came to speed, bines flexible thermoplastic stiffness and heel straps. serious performance, but it MASK? CONSIDER lent grip, and the locking sheath is both
eLed Plus a 2007 Best Buy and Testers’ Choice. $1 G6OI9NG. F9RA9M.E LwESSw. w.
to be the latest in a long line of top-performing regs from Atomic A
4 H I S I M P R E S S I V E N E W F I N G E T 4 ( 2 5 3 4 S I T S ) . N , " 3 A M E F R O M
nqinuagti cps. rItic e. A soft rubber thrust, maneuverability and rubber channels with Tech- But one thing has stayed looks cool doing so.
sports a balanced piston first stage with a body milled from 316 stainless steel, m
Named
au85˚nderwasks &
secure and offers one-handed
terkinetics.com. » UK SL4 eLED. The SL4 eLED
T H E S M O K Y T R A N S P A R E N T P A N E L S O N
I T S
L O N G
S P L I T
while the pneumatically balanced second stage features a valve bofdoyo ant dp leovcerk et supported by reef side kicking pleasure. nopolymer stiffening string- constant: Year after year, in for the smoky transpar-
release. Also available with a blunt
hides shyly in75˚ your BC pocket, but comes out blazing with a beam
made of corrosion-resistant titanium. It’s loaded with all the performa atnhceic gko orduiebsb er heel strap Delivering lots of accelera- ers to control water flow for test after test, the Bio-Fin ent panels on its long split tip. $121. www.underwaterkinet-
B L A D E S 4 H E Y A R E A B I T M O R E F L
E X I B 3 , ! , / - L E T H A ) . N P 3 % # R E V I Atomic regs are famous for, plus adds a couple dollops of comfort by way of a
that’s as bright as many primary lights. This is the perfect light for
well-designed mouthpiece and Atomic’s Comfort Swivel. In the 20a07b puritmsa rayn re og versized blade tion for just a little effort, efficiency and power, and Pro has consistently proven blades, the fin burns the
ics.com.
the traveling diver who needs a bright spotter light by day and a
» UK REMORA TI. Small
O U S V E R S I O N S O F T H E ! T O M I C 3 P L I T F I N B U T S T I L L G E N E R A T E D T H E H I G H E S T T H R U S T M E A S U R E M E N T O F A L L T H E F I N S review, the ST1 also turned in the lowest work of breathing scores mona thdee A NwSiTtIh a combination of and it’s as nimble as an the flexible Optimized Piv- itself to be one of the fast- competition for sheer speed Atomic Aquatics but mighty, the serrated titanium blade
machine and was named the “smoothest breather of the bunch” b Frameless/M e d i u m
I N T H I S R E V I E W 4 H E 3 M O K E O N T H E 7 A T E R F I N S A L S O T I E D F O R T H E F A S T E S T S P E E D S C O R E A M O N G O P E N
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. compact primary by night. Ergonomically, this 2007 Testers’ Choice
ails and stiffening octopus tearing through oting Blade design, which est, most powerful, most and acceleration, plus it has Fi t F r a m e l e s s on this compact emergency cutter easily
$899; $939 w/sealed yoke or DIN valve.
www.atomicaquatics.com. light is as small as youS can get while housing four C-cell batteries,
F I N S A N D S L A S H E D T H R O U G H T H E S L A L O M C O U R S E W I T H A T O P
T H R E E P E R F O R M A N C E ) N E R G O N O M I C T E S T S I T panels that flank a soft rub- eel grass. The Avanti Super- maximizes both stability maneuverable and most no equal when it comes to
ore
hacked through the toughest cutting jobs
nd it fits nic ly in the hand. $76.99. www.underwaterkin tics.
W A S O N E O F O N L Y T W O O P E N
H E E L F I N S T O E A R N A N % X C E L L E N T R A T I N G F R O M T E S T D I V E R S F O R ! C C E L E R A T I O N
ber center. This combines channel makes good use and efficiency in all kicking popular fins in our tests. pegging the thrust meter. 1
CU
BALAB
0
Anatomy of a
REVIEWED Frameless Mask
The shape of the Atomic Frameless
lens was comput e r - designed to max i - we threw at it. The knife/sheath combo
mize ficelod omf vie. w both side-to-side
for a comfortable fin thaAt tomic Aqof Muarteics’s SS1
» PRINCETON TEC TORRENT XENON. The Tor-
Channel Thrust styles. The design provides This year was no exception. Down on the reefs, it’s nim- and vertically, and no mask tested here FRAMELESS is only seven inches long, so you can
0 % .
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A N D I T A L S O E A R N E D T H E H I G H E S T S C O R E P O S S I B L E F O R E A S E O F D O N N I N G A N D D O F F I N G T H A N K S T O T H E N E W could breatnitt. InX boethn tohe nfu llw-sizaeds v etr - he bMrightest pSockeKt lighSt we tested in 2007 and
Scubapro MK11/R395 delivers respectable spe
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S P R I N G S T R A P S W I T H O V E R S I Z E D F I N G E R G R I P & I R M R U B B E R R A I L S P R O D U C E G R E A T P O W E R W I T H L I T T L E E F F O R T & MK11/S555
breathing performance of this backup rig just may Fit veresioan,r wne emedas uare dB ane imstp r eBs - uy rating with its powerful rush of light and low
and thrust while excellintge minpt you dtoi repclatcse wyoaurt perrim falory wre go. Cvoemr ptahcet, feel than most other mod- it comes in high-vis white course corrections, and its sive 85 degre e s of horizontal vision for quick-draw deployment. $84. www.
Few regs offer this kind of breathing performance at MSRP. The center spot is focused and strong, perfect for pinpoint
A N D P R O V I D E S T A B I L I T Y W I T H A L L K I C K S T Y L E S and 75 degrees vertical. In terms of
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such easy-on-the-wallet prices. Both of these breathers ern fins, and it delivers a with Apollo’s outstanding firm rubber side rails pro-
underwaterkinetics.com.
either 316 stainless-steel or titanium components
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earned top honors in this year’s reg tests—a Testers’
There isn’t a kicking style
of top-shelf materials had a number of »
in a fiberglatsiso-rnei nofofr cseodf nty lrounb bbodey.r I tc fheaatunrense ls good bit of thrust, making C-Series spring straps. The vide stability with all kicking FK-850 X-PERT. Every inch of this
Choice for the MK11/S555 and a Best Buy for the surprispingr obetneeficts.t Tehed le nws isi tmhad ea double O-ring seal. A nice locking thumb switch
this fin doesn’t embrace,
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A R O U N D G R E A T F I N M A D E B E T T E R W I T H T H E S P R I N G S T R A P v h 0 O W E R A MK11/R395. The compact over-balanced diaphragm it an attractive choice for 100 percent rubber con- styles. Uniquely designed 420 stainless blade is designed for cut-
N
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7
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in Atomic’s primary regs, to maintain peak perfor- re duceps driestovrteionn atnsd imapcrocveids lieghnt tal activation, while the lens is guarded with a rub-
MK11 is the engine for both systems. It’s a proven per-
Dive Knives
and in this year’s fin tests
transmission, resulting in better visib i l -
C A N Y O U S A Y v m
,a nce ovetr etimche.n Woitph olalrygem ceonrt rsotl rbiunttgoensr asn d a divers who do not want to struction makes for a heavi- spring straps with oversized ting, plus it’s got a stiletto point that’s
former both on the ANSTI breathing machine and in ity. In tbhee clrea rc sokirvt
veerrs.io n$, w4e 4we.r ew
3 0 % % $
ww.princetontec.com.
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it was one of only two finsosf t oval puargned c ofvlaern, tkhee dSS 1b iys eaas yp taoi urs oe, fe ither able to see through the skirt with sur- »
SPYDERCO SALT SERIES. These
" / 4 4 / - 4 H , E ) N . U M % B E R S A N D T H E C O M M E N T S S P E A K F O R T H E M S E L V E S A S D I D T H E C O N S E N S U S O F
the water. The main difference between the S555 and compromise power in any er fin, and with the spring finger grips make donning downright lethal. The blade is balanced
as a power inflator or backup reg. It also comes with prising clarity—it was almost as clear
the R395 is that the former is pneumatically balanced test divers rated Very Good side rails. Comfortable, flex- conditions. Bonus: The fins straps, it’s a bit pricey, but and doffing a breeze. Sim- as the glass. Bonus: The soft silicone compact foldbiyn ga ckonnitvoeusre sdl ihdaen dinlet ow iathn yb laBdCe guard
threaded adapters so you can remove it from your
T E S T D I V E R S I N N A M I N G T H I S F I N A 4 E S T E R S # H O I C E A M O N G O P E N
H E E L S P L I T F I N S 0 R I C E and the latter is not. This makes the breathing on the skirt with a wide double-edge seal
4 ( 2 5 3 4 ) . , " 3 in virtually every ergo caBt-C for cleainbinlge a andn sdto rfaagset w, iwth iytohu ra p rpimraicrye r eg. come with Mares’ new ABS- according to our test div- ply put: This is an all-around sticks to your face like a magnet. The pocket and utshea tH’s -c1o mstfaoirntalebsles -asntde esal fbe.l aBdoettso m S555 less hiccupy in alternate diving positions, but more
With all those features and chart-topping breath- nose pocket is roomy , too.
expensive; the R395 is not as smooth in some dive posi- egory. $89.95. www.Oce- tag sure to make you smile. Plus buckles. $180. www. ers, they’re worth it. $270. great fin. $249. www. BOTTOM LINE: T h i s i s o u r o v e r a l l for sharp, corrlionsei:o Tnh-isfr ies eo nceu ottf itnhge beedsgt ealsl-.r ound ing machine performance, it was a 2007 Testers’
tions, but cheaper. Take your pick. Either way, you walk f a v o r i t e f r a m e l e s s ma s k. I t f i t s g re a t , h a s
anicWorldwide.com. Choice. Sta$in7le0ss.— w$2w49w; T.imtanaiurme—s.$c3o70m. w. ww.
mares.com.
www.apollosportsusa.com.
atomicaquatics.com. a w i d e f i el d o f v i e w , g r e a t s qu e e z e - t a b knives we’ve seen. $55.
www.tusa.com.
3 , ! , / - away a winner. MK11/R395—$398; MK11/S555—$498.
As Seen In the
) . 3 % #
atomicaquatics.com. bu c k l e s , a n d i t f o l d s u p f l at i n a c o o l l o w - February 2008 They can slice through almost anything this
www.scubapro.com. p ro f i l e c a s e. P r i c e : $99. Scuba Diving Magazine
Dive Lights
side of metal wire and come in a variety of
4 H E N E W % C L I P S E I S A L I G H T S T I F F F I N T H A T G E T S
Oceanic Viper Mares Atomic Aquatics
»
blade designs. $77.95 to $89.95. www.
T H E J O B D O N E W I T H O U T M U C H F A N F A R E ) T B O A S T S UK C8 eLED PLUS. The new C8 eLED plus combines
! Q U A T E C $ U O
6 O R T E X
The Viper proMveares ys Pour oton 12 MetMalares Avanti Quattro Excel Apollo SporApts eks XTX50 StSmatus/XoTX2ke o00 Sn ttatuhs e
spyderco.com. » UK BLUE TANG TI
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Proton 12 Metal. It’s been one of Mares’ best-breathing balanced diaphragm reg- tors to feature a built-in electronic intermediate pressure gauge
A D J U S T Q U I C K
R E L E A S E B U C K L E S B U T T H E C O O L E S T beam. UK has developed a “through the lens” heat sink that keeps
of money to guelatto ras f ogr yreearas,t a nd is still goinFg sullfoottrong. What’s new about it? The first-stage Tri- ting-edge of fin design, the C-Series
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this traditional leg-mounted dive knife,
T H I N G A B O U T T H E S E F I N S I S T H E P R I C E T A G Material valve is now made of brass and two different polyurethane compounds dive. The electronics also track the date and hours of use and tell the bulbs cool and burning brighter underwater. A locking switch
3 0 % % $ ) . - 0 ( fin. This kickerfo ri slo ndger slifieg ande bdet ter perforAma n2c0e. 0It 7co mTees swtiteh Drsyn’a mCich Folowic Ceo,n trol, a Quattro Excel is your fin. It For close to a decayodu ewh,e n it’s time for rowutinine sneervirc infgo. Dr igititsal ennevya arsi-dpe,e threfsee ct which features a rust-free titanium blade
4 H E % C L I P S E F O U N D I T S E L F I N T H E M I D D L E O F T H E
dedicated low-pressure port that increases airflow to the second stage. Size-wise, are top-performers, with slightly different versions of an over-balanced,
offers high and low power options for extended burn time (up to
light and comtfhoe rPtroatobn lseec ofnrdo smtag e is abotuht aiss c osmuppacet ars- tkheicy kcoemre . dItse allli-mveetarle codns truc- uses Mares’ Channel Thrust we’ve seen the Bioen-vFiroinnm entally sealed dbialpehrnagdm ofirfst pstaogew (teher l aargnerd X TaX5g0 ifliirstty s,t age sports a and multiple cutting edges. The comfort-
P A C K I N T E R M S O F S P E E D T H R U S
T A N D M A N E U V E R 10 hours), and the light comes with a pistol-grip handle, lanyard
4 ( 2 5 3 4 ) . , " 3 a winning comtiobn irnedautceios dnry mouth and mackehs ait rwte-llt souitpedp foinr cgol dp-weatrefr odivrimng,a anndc ites V or- Technology, which com- Pro change colors,ro btatliangd heos e turret; thet XhTXis2 0f0i nfirs tn sotagte ois nmloyre dcoemlpiavcet);r esx cellent breathing able, contoured handle provides an excel-
tex Assisted Design second stage doesn’t require user adjustments, which means adjustment knobs and ratcheted venturi levers. Both regs dive dry, have comfort-
A B I L I T Y A N D T E S T D I V E R S C O N S I S T E N T L Y R A T E D I T A and eight C-cell batteries. All this and a low MSRP made the C8
all you have to do is breathe. Lightweight, compact, smooth breathing and easy able mouthpieces and feature reversible hose configurations. XTX50—$847; the locking sheath is both
' O O D P E R F O R M E R I N A L L E R G O N O M I C C A T E G O R I E S
of materials, all at a win- when it came to speed, bines flexible thermoplastic stiffness and heel straps. serious performance, but it lent grip, and
3 , ! , / -
to use: What’s not to love? $450.
www.mares.com. XTX200—$990.
www.aqualung.com. eLed Plus a 2007 Best Buy and Testers’ Choice. $169.99. www.
) . 3 % # secure and offers one-handed
A N D W I T H A L L S T Y L E S O F K I C K S $ I V E R S W H O L I K E T H E I R
ning price. A soft rubber thrust, maneuverability and rubber channels with Tech- But one thing has stayed looks cool doing so. Named
underwaterkinetics.com. » UK SL4 eLED. The SL4 eLED
release. Also available with a blunt
7 I T H A N h A L M O S T S P L I T F I N v D
E S I G N A N D D O W N F I N S O N T H E S T I F F S I D E W E R E A B L E T O G E T N I C E
foot pocket supported by reef side kicking pleasure. nopolymer stiffening string- constant: Year after year, in for the smoky transpar-
hides shyly in your BC pocket, but comes out blazing with a beam
tip. $121. www.underwaterkinet-
W A R D
A N G L E D B L A D E T H E $ U O
6 O R T E X I S A N A C C E L E R A T I O N A N D P O W E R B U T F A N S66 O S FC
a thick rubber heel strap Delivering lots of accelera- ers to control water flow for test after test, the Bio-Fin ent panels on its long split
UBA D IVING DECEMBER 2007 DECEMBER 2007 SCUBADIVING.COM 67 that’s as bright as many primary lights. This is the perfect light for
ics.com.
I N T R I G U I N G D E S I G N B U T O U R T E S T S I N D I C A T E I T S T I L L S O F T E R F I N S F E L T T H O S E G - A I N A S R T E O O S K 1 U A T T R O
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the traveling diver who needs a bright spotter light by day and a
» UK REMORA TI. Small
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and it’s as nimble as an the flexible Optimized Piv- itself to be one of the fast- competition for sheer speed but mighty, the serrated titanium blade
compact primary by night. Ergonomically, this 2007 Testers’ Choice
T H E S P E E D C O U R S E S L O W E S T T H R O U G 4 H H T E H E 2 E S A L A C L T O I O M N I S A S O L I D F I N W I
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to pu s tea ri n g t h r o u g h oting Blade design, which est, most powerful, most and acceleration, plus it has on this compact emergency cutter easily
light is as small as you can get while housing four C-cell batteries,
C O U R S E A N D T I E D F O R L O W E S T T H R U S T M E F A O S R U M R E A M N C E E N T C H A R A C T E R I S T I C S ) T F E A T U R E S A L O N G S T I F F h & I N I S S T I F F A N D R I G I D H O A W L I O T T W O O F U L D S T A C K U P Ap Ga Ane I Nls Sth Ta t A 4 ( 2 5 3 4fl Nan k I Na C s ) . o Rf Et Ar , " 3 u Sb I- N G Le Ye l grass. The Avanti Super- maximizes both stability maneuverable and most no equal when it comes to
hacked through the toughest cutting jobs
and it fits nicely in the hand. $76.99. www.underwaterkinetics.
4 E S T D I V E R S R A T E D I T O N L Y & A I R I N T H R E B E L A O D F E O U T R H A M T O I S S T M A D E M O R E F L E X I B L E
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n n e l m a k e s g o o d u se and efficiency in all kicking popular fins in our tests. pegging the thrust meter. we threw at it. The knife/sheath combo
com.
»
PRINCETON TEC TORRENT XENON. The Tor-
I M P O R T A N T E R G O N O M I C E V A L U A T T I O H R N E S E 0 D O I F W F E R E V N T M A T E R I A L T H I C K N E S S E S B U T S T I L L E A S Y T O A C C E L E R A T E Q U # I C H K A L Y N v N E L 4 H R U S T 4 E C H N Of Lo Or Ga Yco m Wfo 3 , ! , / - Hrta Ib Cle H f i n C ) . t Oh Ma 3 % #t B I N Eo Sf Mares’ Channel Thrust styles. The design provides This year was no exception. Down on the reefs, it’s nim-
is only seven inches long, so you can
rent Xenon was the brightest pocket light we tested in 2007 and
3 T R E S S - A N E U V E R A B I L I T Y A N D ! C C E T L E A R K A E T S I O S N O M E B U M T U S C L E T O M O V E E F F I C I
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S O h ' R E A T F I N S N I C E P O W E R F L W E H X E I B N L E T H E R M O P L A S T I C R Ud Bel Biv Eer Rs r Ce Hsp Ae Nct Nab Ele L S s p Wee Id Ts H 4 ETe Cc Hhn No Olo Pg Oy, La Y s Mys Ete Rm Sth Ta It F F E N I Na Gst if Sfe Tr, R m I No Gre E “ Rtr Sa d Tit Oio n Ca Ol” N T R OA L 2 W00 A7 T T Ee Rst ers’ Choice, ble and responsive to minor
mount it to your BC, a hose or web straps
earned a Best Buy rating with its powerful rush of light and low
' O O D F O R 3 T A B I L I T Y 4 H E I R G E N E R A L S C M O O N O S E T H N S F U R S O M ) N F O O T P O C K E T T O B L A D E T I P F O R L E S S T U R B U L E N C E A N D I T S S T A B I L I Z E D B Y E F F I C I E N T N S E I E D D E E D R A v I L S F L O W F O R E F F I C I E N C Y A N D a Pnd O t Whr Eus Rt w h !il Le S e Oxc e Nll Ein Wg i n A R Ed ir Te Hct Es w !at "er 3 fl o 0w L o Uv Se r Bth Ue C K L Efe Se l Tth Ha An Tm o As Lt Lo Oth Wer m Qo Ud I- C K Ci At Mco m Ae Cs Tin I h Oig Nh -vis white course corrections, and its
for quick-draw deployment. $84. www.
MSRP. The center spot is focused and strong, perfect for pinpoint
S P I T E O F I T S M U L T I
P A R T F L O W
T H R O U G 4 H H E B L R A E D S E U L T I T I S S B A E T T E R
T H A N
A V E R A G E T H R U S T C O M P A R E D T O T H E O T H E R F I N S I N T H I S R E V I E W B U T S L I G H T " L Y / S L O 4 W 4 E R / - ! , S T ) I F . F % F O R E A S Y R E M O V A L W I T H O U Tti g Hht A c Vo Ir Nne Gri n Tg O m a An Le Tu Ev Rer s T. H E b Sl Tad Re A Pvia Aa Dsm J Uar St T c Mom Eb Nin Ta - $ U Re Ir Nn Gfin s O, a Bn Jd E i Ct d T Ie Vliv Ee rs T a E S T S Iw Ti th S CA Opo Rl Elo D’s outstanding firm rubber side rails pro-
underwaterkinetics.com.
illumination. It comes with a lanyard, eight AA-batteries, and is
» TUSA
V E R Y S T I F F F I N T H A T S D I F F I C U L T T O K I C K S P - E E A D N E M U V E E A R S I N U G R E M E N T S A N D S L A L O M C O U R S E T I M E S 4 E S T D I V E R S S A I D T H E W I D E T R A D I T I O N A L B L F A I N D E B E W S A T S S U I T E D T O D A I M V O E R N S G T H E T O P T H R E E P A DTh De Lr Ee is Fn I’ Nt a S k Fic Oki Rn g T s Hty Rle U S T P Rti Oon D o Uf Cso Ef Dt r u Ab Nbe Dr c Ch Aan Mne Els I N Ago Bo Od V b Eit
o Af Vth Eru Rs At, G m Ea k Iin Ng T H E C S- PSe Eri Ees D s pring straps. The vide stability with all kicking FK-850 X-PERT. Every inch of this
protected with a double O-ring seal. A nice locking thumb switch
W A S A L S O D I F F I C U L T C O M P A R E D T O G T R H E E A T O F T O H R E R S C F U I N L L S I N G A N D R E M A I N E D V E R Y S T A B L E I N A L L K I C K I N G S T Y L E S " U C K L E S A N D S T R A P S W E R E W E I T A H S Y S T T R O O N G L E G S ˆ A B N U D T M A N E U V E R A B I L I T Y T E S Tth Sis fi 4n E d So Te sn D’t I Vem Eb R Sra c Ce O, N S I Di Ent Re Ers Dpe r Ts Hed E Mwit h O f Nle Exi b Ole F T H E it S a Tn I a Ft Ft Era Rc ti Fve I N c Sho i Ic Ne fo Tr H E T E S1 T0 0 G p Re Orc Uen Pt ru bber con- styles. Uniquely designed 420 stainless blade is designed for cut-
prevents accidental activation, while the lens is guarded with a rub-
I N T H I S R E V I E W A D J U S T A N D E A R N E D T H E 2 E A C T I O N A 6 E R Y ' O O D R A T I N G F O R $ O N N I N G A N D $ O F F I N G 4 H E W I D E H E E L S T R Y A O P U S C A N T B E A B T U T T H F O E U N D T H E M E Q U A L L Y Ga On Od Din t Fh Ois R y e Fa L Ur’s T f Tin E Rte st Ds, O L P H Ite Nc h An Nop Do l Fy Rm Oe Gr s t Kri In Cg Ke Srs 4 H E d Ci Ove Nrs S Ew Nho S Udo S n Oot P w I Nan It O t No W A Ss t Tru Hc Atio T n makes for a heavi- spring straps with oversized ting, plus it’s got a stiletto point that’s
ber cover. $44.
www.princetontec.com.
4 % 3 4 $ ) 6 % 2 h # 0 / R E - T T Y - S % T I . N F F P 4 A 3 R T I C U L A R W E R E V E R Y S E C U R E A N D C O M F O R T A B L E M A N U F A C T U T H R E E 1 R U A S T T R O % X C E L O F F E R S Git Ow Oas D o n Pe O o Wf o En Rl y t Sw To A Bfin Is L I T Y Aan Nd D f la An Ck Ce Ed Lb Ey R a A p Ta Ii Or Nof A N D Wc Oo Rm Kp Sr o Bm Eis Se T p Fo Ow Re r Din I a Vn Ey R S W Ie Tr H f in B, Ia Gnd with the spring finger grips make donning downright lethal. The blade is balanced
F I N S B U T S T A B L E S I D E T O S I D E v
4 h , % E 3 N G 4 T H $ H A ) M 6 % 2 # h ) / T - H A S - A % S . N A 4 P P 3 Y B L A D E T H A T I S E I T H E R O N O R O F F v h 4 H E F L U T T E R A N D S U G G E S T E D R E T L E A G I L S P U S H I N G H E A V Y L O A D S te st divers rated Very Good side rails. Comfortable, flex- conditions. Bonus: The fins straps, it’s a bit pricey, but and doffing a breeze. Sim- by a contoured handle with blade guard
P E R E D M A N E U V E R A B I L I T Y v h . O T S U R E D O T H L P I S H D I N E S K I G I C N K P R O D U C E D R A P I D A C C E L E R A T I O N v h ! S S O M E O N E W H O L I K E S A S T I F F E R B L A D E T H E Y W O R K E D P R I C E 0 4 R I % C 3 E 4 $ ) 6 % 2 # h & / I Nin - S v ir V -tu Ea Rl %ly Y e .v Ee Ar 4y S e Y 3rg o T Oca t R- E M Oib Vle E a n Ad N f Das t, R w Eit Ph La A p Cri Ece v hc 4o Hm Ie S w i Fth I NM a Gre Is V’ n Ee Sw A YB OS U- according to our test div- ply put: This is an all-around that’s comfortable and safe. Bottom
W O R K S v F O R M E v M O R E P O W E R T H A N M A N E U V Ee Rg Ao Bry. I L$ I8 T9 Y.9 v5 . w w w h.O !c e G- O O D ta g P Osu Wre E t Ro F m Ua L k Fe I y No u Bsm Ui Tle . Y O UP Nlu Es Ebu Dc k Tle Os. B$1 E8 0 S. Tw Rw Ow N. G E N Oe Urs G, t Hhe y’re worth it. $270. great fin. $249. www. line: This is one of the best all-round
" / 4 4 / - ) T , S ) A . F A % S C I N A T I N G C O " N / C E 4 P T 4 / - 4 H , E ) 2 . E A % C T I O N W A S L A U D E D M O S T B Y T H O S E W H O L I K E A S T I F F E R B L A D E 7 H I L E I T O F F E R S T O U S E I T v
anicWorldwide.com. $70.
www.mares.com.
mares.com.
www.apollosportsusa.com.
atomicaquatics.com. knives we’ve seen. $55.
www.tusa.com.
B U T A W E A K P E R F O R M E R I N T H V E A R I W A B A L T E E F R L E X 0 I B R I I L C I E T Y W I T H A B L E N D I N G O F M A T E R I A L S I T S L A R G E S U R F A C E A R E A S T I L L N E E D S S O M E M U S C L E T O " / 4 4 / - 4 H , E ) 1 . U A % T T R O % X C E L O F F E R S A T R A D I T I O N A L F E E L W I T H S T A T E
O F
T H E
A R T T E C H N O L O G Y I N
M O V E 0 R I C E M A T E R I A L S A N D D E S I G N 0 R I C E
72 S CUBA D IVING DECEMBER 2007 DECEMBER 2007 SCUBADIVING.COM 73
3 # 5 " ! $ ) . 6 / ) 6 . % ' - " % 2 . / 6 % - " % 2 3 # 5 " ! $ ) 6 ) . ' # / -
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