My New Royal Aqua Master

[Nemrod]

As Bryan suggests, if you have never used a double hose you should not underestimate the difference. I have told people this and it was not until afterwards they understood. Not more diffucult but different and you should learn that in the pool.

For example, the double hose does not like to be surface swimmed on your back. For two decades with single hose I have surface swimmed on my back. With a double hose it free flows constantly, so now I tuck a snorkel (sometimes) in my belt and surface swim face down using the snorkel--as was done in the old days and as actually I was taught. Sometimes the instructor knows best.

Try it out in pool and then progress to an open water but controlled area. The chlorine is not going to hurt anything a few times.

James

[JES]

As Bryan suggests, if you have never used a double hose you should not underestimate the difference. I have told people this and it was not until afterwards they understood. Not more diffucult but different and you should learn that in the pool.

For example, the double hose does not like to be surface swimmed on your back. For two decades with single hose I have surface swimmed on my back. With a double hose it free flows constantly, so now I tuck a snorkel (sometimes) in my belt and surface swim face down using the snorkel--as was done in the old days and as actually I was taught. Sometimes the instructor knows best.

Try it out in pool and then progress to an open water but controlled area. The chlorine is not going to hurt anything a few times.

James

Bryan & James are absolutely correct. You don't want your first dive with a double hose regulator to be several miles off-shore in deep cold water with poor visibility. It has happened before and it's just asking for trouble.

Build-up your skills and confidence first. You'll never regret the time you spend getting to know your RAM.

[duckbill]

With a double hose it free flows constantly, so now I tuck a snorkel (sometimes) in my belt and surface swim face down using the snorkel--as was done in the old days and as actually I was taught.

Besides, you may be surprised how much underwater splendor can be enjoyed while on the trip back proivided the water is clear enough. If nothing else, if worse comes to worse you will at least see the one that gets you!

[Bryan]

Let me say it a little different......For a while, try using the double hose as it was designed. Enjoy the freedom and sharpen your buoyancy and air consumption calculation skills.....Once you start strapping on crap with names like Zeagle and OMS all you are diving is a single hose with an added hose for the exhaust....JMO....Yours may vary.

[CentralTxDiver]

Great points all...Thanks for the help and suggestions. I'll plug the ports and dive the RAM in a pool as suggested. I've learned to value the opinions of other more experienced divers and this would be no exception.

Jim