What is a pony bottle, and why is it used in scuba diving?
A pony bottle is a small, independent air tank used as a backup air supply in emergencies. It provides an extra safety margin for divers in case of primary tank failure or out-of-air situations.
What size pony bottle should I choose?
The size depends on your diving depth and air consumption rate. Common sizes range from 3 to 30 cubic feet. Choose a size that provides enough air to safely ascend in case of an emergency.
How is a pony bottle attached to my dive gear?
Pony bottles can be mounted to your main tank with brackets or carried independently using slings. The mounting option should be secure and easily accessible for quick deployment during an emergency.
Does a pony bottle require a separate regulator?
Yes, a pony bottle requires its own dedicated regulator, including a first and second stage. This ensures the backup air supply is fully independent of your primary system.
How do I maintain a pony bottle?
Rinse the bottle and regulator with fresh water after each dive. Have the tank hydrostatically tested and visually inspected per local regulations. Keep the regulator serviced regularly to ensure proper functioning in emergencies.
