Apeks ATX40 Octopus ReviewApeks ATX40 Octopus reviewThe redundant second stage (aka octopus) is one of the most overlooked pieces of equipment. Divers buy a cheap octopus because they don’t think they’ll ever have to use it. That’s a big mistake. If your octopus fails, it can turn a dangerous situation into a deadly one. Fortunately you won’t have to worry about that with an Apeks octopus. Apeks is one of the most respected names in the scuba equipment industry and they built their reputation on their exceptional regulators. Here’s some more information on the Apeks ATX40. Apeks ATX40 Octopus OverviewThe Apeks ATX40 is a reliable regulator that breathes as well as some of the primary second stages produced by other companies. At roughly $150, the Apeks ATX40 is a bit pricier than most redundant second stages but the available features more than make up for a slightly higher price tag.Apeks ATX40 Octopus FeaturesThe Apeks ATX40 features an adjustable venturi assist control. The venturi assist control is a great feature to have on an octopus set because you can set it on low to prevent free flows and your buddy can turn it to high during an emergency so they can get all the air they need.
In addition, the Apeks ATX40 is a balanced second stage which is kind of unusual for an octopus. Balanced second stages are much easier breathing regulators, but they also tend to be more expensive. That’s why most manufacturers make unbalanced octopi. Here’s the problem with that: An out-of-air emergency is most likely to happen at the end of a dive when your air supply is low. Unbalanced regulators perform poorly under these conditions because these regulators are set to overcome the pressure of a full tank. A diver has to work a lot harder to get the regulator to deliver air when the tank is low. That extra effort could turn a stressed diver into a panicked diver. A balanced regulator like the Apeks ATX40 Octopus, however, will breathe the same on a full tank as it will on a tank with 500 psi (34 bar). Which octopus would you rather have in an emergency? Apeks ATX40 Octopus Who Should Buy It?Short answer: Pretty much everyone.A lot of divers want to cut corners when it comes to buying a redundant second stage, but buying cheap equipment that’ll be used in an emergency is a bad idea. The ATX40 will perform well in warm water and cold regardless of your tank pressure. This octopus set is perfect for the average sports diver. It doesn’t matter if your diving the coral reefs in the Caribbean or the Kelp forests of the Pacific; the Apeks ATX40 Octopus has you covered. The only divers that shouldn’t consider the Apex ATX40 are solo divers (something like a spare air would be better). For everyone else, the Apex ATX40 is the perfect choice for your redundant second stage. The price tag might be more than most octopi, but you’ll be happy you paid it if you ever find yourself in an out-of-air emergency. Read other Apeks Regulator Reviews
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