Tank size?

[hawkenph]

Hi all,

I was wondering what is a good tank size to start off with. I plan to work up to either MD or DM and may go tech too.But, for now its just getting diving in and the training. I would like to get 2 tanks. Just don't know what size. Any suggestion? Or did I just open a can of worms?? lol j/k
thank you..
Kurt

[in_cavediver]

Originally Posted by hawkenph

Hi all,

I was wondering what is a good tank size to start off with. I plan to work up to either MD or DM and may go tech too.But, for now its just getting diving in and the training. I would like to get 2 tanks. Just don't know what size. Any suggestion? Or did I just open a can of worms?? lol j/k
thank you..
Kurt

Without any other information - a matched pair of steel LP85's/HP100's are generally speaking, very good tanks for everybody. They weigh the same as an AL80, give you more gas and require less lead to dive. (4-5lbs less). The LP tanks are for the most part the same size/weight as the HP tanks just lower pressure hence lower capacity. (cheaper too)

Later, a matched set can be transformed into doubles with a manifold + bands. They are pretty good tanks for just about any diving you could want to do.

When I said a matched set, I literally meant a height matched set of tanks. For some reason, steel tanks can vary a bit in height so when you buy them, make sure to specify that you plan to double them up.

[crgjpg]

I have not gotten a tank yet. From what I have read on the forum it depends on your financial ability, size, and the ability of LDS filling pressure. If you can afford it, I see many prefer a steal tank. If your LDS can fill high pressure, I see many prefer the HP over the LP. It appears that many like the HP100 or HP120. But also make sure that the tank is not too large for your body and ability to carry it if you do shore dives.

[hawkenph]

Hi again,

Sorry, I am 5'7". Money situation. Depends if I want to wait alittle longer or get them fast. I was thinking later on getting the HP 120. I was just thinking for the mean time. The LDS I will be using is a Big resort here in Cebu, Philippines. The have a Big set-up with all the Air mixes right there.. So, I am sure filling wont be a problem.
thanks again for your help.... Plus, chances are I will have to order them with ST and have them shipped here..
Kurt

[Splitlip]

Keep in mind that the 120's are several inches taller than an Al 80 and considerably heavier.

The 100's IMO would be a much better choice for you.

[Joe L]

Good question, I haven't purchased my first tank yet and am having trouble between steel and alum. I mostly shore dive but, it seems like having the extra weight from steal, and cut down on lead, seems an advantage.

Carry on, I'm sucking in all this knowledge..

[bubbletrubble]

Check out the buoyancy characteristics, dimensions, and weight (empty vs. full) at this webpage. It might help you decide whether you want to be carrying a full HP120 that weights 5-7 lbs. more than a full HP100. I suspect that the HP120 will only cost slightly more than the HP100. Since you'll be diving warm water, pay attention to how much ballast you need. For example, if I ever dove a Worthington X7 HP100 in warm water with a 3mm wetsuit, I would need to wear maybe 2 lbs. of lead tops. Your weighting considerations will be different depending on the kind of BCD and exposure protection you use.

[character157]

HP Steel 100 Scuba Tank High Pressure X7-100, Scuba Tanks, Worthington, HP Steel 100 Scuba Tank High Pressure X7-100

That is my vote...just about same weight as al80 when empty, shorter than al80, and negative at end of dive. Its also same diameter as al80...so the rental tank when you travel will fit in BC perfectly with little adjustment(I am a huge slacker so that matters to me.) Not too mention you can use the valve din or yoke!

[MSilvia]

Originally Posted by Joe L

I haven't purchased my first tank yet and am having trouble between steel and alum.

Other than that they're less expensive, what advantage do you see aluminium tanks having over a longer lasting tank that'll let you wear less lead?

[wsodonnell]

what's wrong with starting with al 80's. Almost every destination you travel to will be using the size, many people you dive with starting out will be using it as well since it is what will be rented at the LDS and you can always resell them and get most of your money back.