Scuba Diving Octopus

You know them as ‘octo’ and they are your secondary supply of air if your primary regulator fails or a dive buddy runs out of air. They are usually bright yellow, so they are very visible underwater, and they are here for a scuba diving emergency.

What is a Scuba Diving Octopus?

A scuba diving octopus is an additional second-stage regulator connected to the diver's primary air supply, usually via a longer hose. It works the same way as the primary regulator but is intended for use in emergencies. The octopus provides an alternate air source so that both the diver and their buddy have access to breathable air in case of an equipment failure or out-of-air situation.

Key Features of a Scuba Diving Octopus

Bright color

Octopuses are usually brightly colored (often yellow) to make them easily identifiable and accessible in an emergency. The distinctive color helps divers wearing a full face mask quickly locate the octopus when needed.

Longer hose

The hose of an octopus is longer than that of the primary regulator. This extra length provides more flexibility and space between the diver and their buddy when sharing air. It’s easier to manage in an emergency.

Purge valve

Like the primary regulator, an octopus has a purge valve that helps the diver clear any water that might enter the second stage. This feature means that the octopus is ready for immediate use.

Durability and reliability

Octopuses are designed to be strong and reliable. They deliver air efficiently even under the stress of an emergency situation. They are built to last in harsh underwater conditions and for repeated use.

Why is a Scuba Diving Octopus Important?

Safety

The main function of an octopus is to provide a safe second air source. In the event of a regulator malfunction or an out-of-air situation, the octopus is there to supply air to the diver or a co-diver so they can continue to breathe while ascending to the surface.

Emergency preparedness

Having an octopus as part of your scuba gear means that you are prepared for unexpected situations. It is part of a well-thought-out dive plan and boosts overall atomic aquatics safety.

Air sharing

In situations where a buddy runs out of air, the octopus allows for effective air sharing. The longer hose facilitates a more comfortable and manageable air-sharing experience and helps both divers remain calm and controlled during the ascent.

Choosing the Right Scuba Diving Octopus

Are you ready to choose the right scuba diving octopus for you? Here is a helpful guide.

Compatibility

Confirm that your octopus is compatible with your primary regulator and diving setup. It should easily connect to your first-stage regulator and integrate seamlessly with your existing gear.

Visibility

Choose an octopus with a bright, easily recognizable color. This makes it simple to locate and deploy in an emergency.

Ease of use

Look for an octopus with an intuitive design, including a purge valve and a mouthpiece that is comfortable to use. The controls should be easy to operate under stress. Remember that you will need your octopus during an emergency when you might be panicking. The easier they are to use, the quicker it will be.

Durability

Choose an octopus made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand repeated use and exposure to saltwater. It should be reliable and strong.

Hose length

The hose length should be long enough to facilitate comfortable air sharing. A longer hose gives more flexibility and space between divers.

Maintain Your Scuba Diving Octopus

Maintain your octopus so it lasts longer.

Rinse with fresh water

After each dive, rinse the octopus thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and other debris. This helps prevent corrosion and buildup.

Regular inspections

Check the octopus for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Check that the purge valve and other components are working correctly.

Professional servicing

Have your octopus serviced by a professional dive technician according to the manufacturer's recommendations. That’s how you can keep your octopus functional for many years to come.

Get Your Scuba Diving Octopus at Divers Supply

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FAQs

Why is it called an octopus?

The term "octopus" is used because the secondary regulator, often with a longer hose, resembles the tentacles of an octopus extending from the diver’s first-stage regulator.

How is a scuba diving octopus different from a primary regulator?

Functionally, an octopus is similar to a primary regulator in that it delivers breathable air. However, it has a longer hose and is brightly colored (often yellow) to distinguish it from the primary regulator and make it easily accessible in emergencies.

How should I position my octopus for easy access?

Your octopus should be securely attached to your BCD in a way that it is easily reachable and visible. Common placements include clipping it to the front of your BCD or using a dedicated octopus holder to keep it streamlined and accessible.

Can I use my octopus as a primary regulator?

While an octopus can, technically speaking, be used as a primary regulator, it is designed as a backup and should not replace your primary regulator for regular use. It should be reserved for emergencies and air-sharing situations.