Automatic XM Quickfit Lifejackets - opinions?

[Rudderman]

I need some kind of life jackets for a 10 ft runabout for use on small lakes and small rivers. I don't intend to get wet, but better safe than sorry right?<br />I want something thats not too bulky, but at the same time will give good buoyancy when its really needed. <br />Anyone had any experience with the automatic type ones? I will be ordering via mail-order so I can't see them up close before I buy.

 

[Capn Mike]

Re: Automatic XM Quickfit Lifejackets - opinions?

We use Mustang brand in the Coast Guard Auxiliary; they are the automatic type (with a valve that blows up the bladders as soon as you hit the water), and the only kind acceptable as a Type III PFD. They're especially nice in hot weather.<br />We had to try them out in a swimming pool. I jumped in and would guess that my head got no more than 2' under water when the bladders inflated. Dang near shot 5' above the water surface. If you get one, be sure to wear it on the outside of all your clothes.<br />Honestly, though, I use a flat closed cell PFD designed for canoe/kyacking when I'm fishing, especially in cooler weather. Kind of keeps me toasty, you can wear it under a rain coat, and I've become accustomed to it.

 

[18rabbit]

Re: Automatic XM Quickfit Lifejackets - opinions?

Stale thread ... but that can’t stop me from posting. <br /><br />Powerboat Reports evaluated a bunch of these PFD’s. Their conclusion is the Crewsaver 150N is the best one available. It’s made in the UK, but does not have USCG approval. (Only matters in the US) Runner up went to the Mustang AirForce, MD3031 (auto/man inflate) and MD3003 (man inflate), the MD3003 being a little more comfortable.

 

[BillP]

Re: Automatic XM Quickfit Lifejackets - opinions?

I was surfing a cruising message board recently and there was talk of the cartridge getting saturated and the jacket inflating on deck. The poster had it happen while sailing and it scared him. He said the cartridge was old and should have been changed. Evidently, the device will absorb moisture from heavy weather and deploy, it doesn't have to get submerged.

 

[Rudderman]

Re: Automatic XM Quickfit Lifejackets - opinions?

I suppose its better for it to be trigger-happy than to not inflate at all!

 

[18rabbit]

Re: Automatic XM Quickfit Lifejackets - opinions?

Bill – I think there was mention in PBR about this being a thing of the past. New design has the “pellet” protected from weather but immediately accessible should you end up in the water. All the auto-inflate vests they evaluated worked! (The preferred vests won based on comfort.) A guinea pig was suited up in appropraite clothing, vested, and tossed in the bay. In every case the vest inflated before the guy’s head pop back to the surface. He was actually lifted back up by the vest. The pellet is designed to dissolve in 4 to 6 seconds.<br /><br />Heard from some blowboat friends the thing to do is grab your buddy’s manual-inflate cord when they’re not looking, and pull. Supposed to scare the crap out them. I tell ya, those blowboat people have the weirdest since of humor. <br /><br />EDIT: I just looked that the user manual for the 3031 on Mustang's website. What Bill mentioned is there!!!<br /><br />"Special Consideration for Automatic Devices<br />Premature automatic inflation causes several risks that you must address to avoid drowning. The PFD might not be armed when needed, either knowingly or unknowningly. Much less common but also important are:<br /><br />… 3) The PFD could inflate when you are in an awkward place or position. Premature inflation may occur in certain conditions, including when the device is:<br />-Subjected to splashing<br />-In high humidity<br />-In heavy fog<br />-In the rain … "