Difference in Mustang Inflatable PFDs?

[tcbass]

I'm looking at getting some Inflatable PFDs during this years sales. I like the Mustangs because they won't inflate unless under water pressure (4 inches), not accidently from water, spray, or humidity. I don't know of any other IPFD that will do that. I just don't know what the difference between the Mustang Elite 28K Inflatable PF,  Elite™ 28 Inflatable PFD, Elite™ Inflatable PFD (Bass Competition), HIT™ Inflatable PFD is? I am not a tournament fisherman and only want these for safety and fishing. 

When I went to Tackle Warehouse they had the Mustang 38 as the Mustang Elite 38 HIT.....so is it the 38 or the HIT?

 

So, what's the difference between all of these and what is the best for me?

 

I saw that Cabelas has their own brand and it is on sale, but it doesn't say if they will open only under pressure or not. If you know of any brand that can do this and is reliable, feel free to throw that name out there. Thank you in advance.

[tcbass]

No one knows?

[A-Jay]

Each model is describe here ~

https://mustangsurvival.com/

This can help you choose what may be best for your particular Life Saving needs.

 There are some basic differences in buoyancy & fit - where the jacket is designed to stay on the wearer if expelled from the vessel at high speed.  These have a "3D Chassis" as the back rather than a single strap.

FYI ~ I'm wearing the Elite 28 (with engine kill cord) whenever the 200 Optimax it fired up.

A-Jay

 

[Turkey sandwich]

I have one of the nicer Cabela's ones and generally like it.  The only way to inflate it (that I'm aware of) are via the pull cord and manually with your mouth.  

[tcbass]

On 11/21/2016 at 9:26 PM, A-Jay said:

Each model is describe here ~

https://mustangsurvival.com/recreational/

This can help you choose what may be best for your particular Life Saving needs.

 There are some basic differences in buoyancy & fit - where the jacket is designed to stay on the wearer if expelled from the vessel at high speed.  These have a "3D Chassis" as the back rather than a single strap.

FYI ~ I'm wearing the Elite 28 (with engine kill cord) whenever the 200 Optimax it fired up.

A-Jay

 

 

Thanks. I read those descriptions, confusing. They seem the same. Which is why I started this thread. lol. 

 

Thx!

[A-Jay]

2 minutes ago, tcbass said:

 

Thanks. I read those descriptions, confusing. They seem the same. Which is why I started this thread. lol. 

 

Thx!

OK - How about just pick the picture of the one you like.

A-Jay

[J Francho]

The feature you want is HIT - hydro-static inflation.  The rest are just fitment differences.  If you're moving at high speed, then you want more than just the strap.  If it's just slower water travel, the strap model will do.

[NYWayfarer]

On ‎11‎/‎20‎/‎2016 at 11:48 PM, tcbass said:

I saw that Cabelas has their own brand and it is on sale, but it doesn't say if they will open only under pressure or not. If you know of any brand that can do this and is reliable, feel free to throw that name out there. Thank you in advance.

I ordered one of the Cabelas auto inflate PFD that they have on sale. I have the same worries that you do about only opening under pressure but not enough to overlook the price. I can always re-arm it.

My two main methods of boating are a canoe with a trolling motor or a Meyers 14' pro aluminum boat with a 15 horsepower motor so I am not concerned with getting a high impact PFD

[J Francho]

HIT is gonna run you two bills, minimum. The dissolving bobbin style is pretty reliable.  The only time mine went off is when I dropped it in the water, lol.

[tcbass]

I emailed them. Here's the response I got.

 

 

Quote

 

Thank you for your interest in Mustang Survival. 

 

All the PFDs being considered below have the HIT (Hydrostatic Inflator Technology), which inflate when submerged in approximately four inches or more of water.  The primary difference between the vests is the fit and personal preference.  All vests listed will work in the marine environment.

 

I’ve included the model number for each item and a link to our website.  Simply enter the model number in the search bar on our website, or use the dropdown menu.  Review the photos of the vests as I think this may help you in determining which vest to purchase. 

 

HIT™ Inflatable PFD – MD3183 -  Low profile and allow for maximum mobility for severe marine environments

Elite 28K Inflatable PFD – MD5183 KF - Has slim design  

Elite™ 28 Inflatable PFD – MD5183 – Designed to stay in place at high speeds

Elite™ Inflatable PFD (Bass Competition) - MD5183 BC -  Has “MUSTANG” written in large letter down the front side of the vest

 

The MD3183/3184 are built for offshore boating (with the HIT technology and bladder size).  It has a single strap that goes down the back side and depending on how rigorous the activity levels are, adjustment may be necessary for comfort throughout the duration of wearing the vest.  

 

The back panel on the MD5183’s helps keep the vest in place. It was specifically designed to be a closer, more ergonomic fit and will likely be the option to ride up the least.