Quote: (Originally Posted by
warjarrett)

Here I am again, now responding to my own thread. I just finished a week of training with Jeff Bozanic. And, one thing I learned was that I will ALWAYS carry a bail-out bottle. For a dive to 90-100 ft, the size of the bail-out MUST BE at least 19 cu.ft., to allow for some time to get oriented (if an emergency occurs), a normal ascent, and a 3 minute safety stop. So, now I change my assumptions, but the question still stands >>> Assuming I can fully use-up a pair of 19 cu.ft. cylinders, how many dive-hours can I roughly expect to get from a single pair? I must add these conditions also: no heavy work-load and average physical condition. <<< Ok, my current best answer is this: The latest rule-of-thumb I read is about 500 psi of each (O2 and dill) for an average 1 1/2 hour dive above 100 ft (keep in mind that O2 consumption has nothing to do with depth). But you must have plenty of left-over dil, because you never know when you might unexpectedly need more than usual. So I am thinking that I can dive the O2 right down to 200-300 psi, but should never let the dil get below 500 psi. What does everyone think of these as just rough ideas?
I have the ability to use off board plug in, but lets not go there.For just starting out I would always try and fill my dil bottle. As the hrs progress and you learn your rig then you will know what is correct and what is not.
As far as O2 I think you are cutting it way close. I would never jump in with O2 psi under 1000, unless I had the ability for off board plug in (which I do). Just fill your bottles often dive and learn your kit everything else will fall into place.
i