RE: catalina27-talk: auto inflatable PFDs

[The Emmerichs]

Shana,   I have 2 inflatables, one auto and the other manual.  The first one I bought was the manual inflatable.  I don't know the brand, its down on the boat.  I bought the second one under extreme pressure from my wife who felt I may be hit on the head by the boom, knocked overboard and would drown as I could not pull the inflation lanyard.  The auto-inflatable one is a "Sospenders."   Both have a built in harness with "D" rings for a tether.   I have heard that some of the earlier inflatables were sensitive to moisture (spray coming in over the rail) or rainfall.  I think I have heard that some of the newer models are less sensitive.  Suggest you contact West or some other chandlery for better advice than mine.   I agree with Bob Duerer's assessments in his later email.  I think he nailed it.   In the confessional booth area, I have never tested either of mine.  I WILL do that this year when the water temperature warms up.   John Emmerich 5874 TR Louisville, KY -----Original Message----- From: catalina27-talk@memberclicks.com [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, April 26, 2006 3:11 PM To: catalina27-talk@memberclicks.com Subject: catalina27-talk: autoinflatable PFDs Does anyone have any recommendations on the auto inflatable PFDs?  I purchased the West Marine 4000 Offshore model today.  Tried it on when I got home (silly me, should have done that in the store) and found it quite uncomfortable on my neck, and heavier than I expected.  It sits on the neck rather than on the shoulders.  I am hoping to get an auto inflating model with a integral harness.  I do plan on wearing it often, esp. when sailing with my kids.  (Setting a good example and all that.)  Are the SoSpender models any more comfortable?   Thank you Shana Germantown, WI #6564 Sweet Talk (that's still the name...)