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I posted my original message in response to a discussion on the 
inflation rate of BCs. It was probably a mistake to do so? However in 
doing so I did not necessarily advocate using one. In fact I don't 
recommend it. There are specific examples where a rapid inflator may be 
useful. I believe Jim Bowden uses a modified inflator on his 900ft+ 
dives. Not the ordinary run of the mill dive though! They may be useful 
on very specific deep (300+) wreck dives in VERY STRONG currents and 
low visability where you free drop from the boat and drift into the 
wreck. A rapid descent rate in this case may he a benefit, or a hazard. 
However you can still do it properly with a regular inflator.  In 
almost all cases the risks associated with a malfunctioning inflator 
(read arterial gas embolism AGE) outweigh the benefits. I am serious 
when I say 4 to 5 times the normal inflation rate. Stick one of those 
on at a 20ft deco stop drifting on a lift bag and you WILL earn a visit 
to the box (the one with pressure or the other with a silken lining). 
Read the statistics on the causes of AGE and you will find equipment 
malfunction (translate stuck inflator) as a significant contributor.  
We are all supposed to be big boys and girls on this list; you 
ultimately will have to make the choices. I have provided information 
with commentary, nothing more! 

Doug Chapman

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