Sherwood SR1 regulator review and features
The Sherwood SR1 is a pretty nice scuba regulator. It is an easy breather with some nice features and cool looks. There were some faults that this regulator had that would make me choose a different regulator over this one though. It could be a serious problem if you are a deeper diver or cold water diver.
First of all, if you dive warm tropical waters, this regulator is one of the best you can get. It is flawless for the most part in warmer waters. There were no issues with free flowing or ease of breathing at depth. The purge of this regulator is great too. It's easy and powerful. Good stuff.
Below are the features of the Sherwood SR1:
- Less than 0.5 joules/liter , W.O.B. , at 165 fsw, 62.5 RMV
- Pneumatically balanced 2nd stage
- SMART demand lever - reacts to depressurization and relieves load on seat, extending seat life while promoting consistent regulation
- Large flexible purge cover
- One touch performance adjustment
- 1st stage - two piece 1st stage piston for precise optimum balance and intermediate pressure control
- Dry sealed ambient pressure chamber
- 5 low pressure ports located on a 360 swivel
- 2 high pressure ports
One thing this regulator didn't have was a dive/pre-dive switch. I didn't have an issue with it free flowing before the dive, so I don't consider it a flaw. I'm just stating this so you know.
This regulator is somewhat safe to be used in cold-water. There is a major flaw with the SR1 though. Anything below 50 F seems to cause the SR1 to free flow at depth. This is not good and can be a major issue for those of you who dive cold water. For example, the last thing you want is to be at 120 ft. and have the regulator free flow. You don't need the stress or the hazard. Th regulator is sealed to provide protection from freezing and contaminants, so I'm stumped. So, if you are a cold water diver you should seriously consider other reg's for around the same price as this one. If you are a warm water diver, this regulator is a viable choice as it excels in warm waters. With the technology used in the SR1, it performs right up there with the Oceanic EOS.
Right now the Sherwood SR1 is retailing for about $660 at select retailers. If you are looking for a solidly built regulator that performs exceptionally well in warm water, the Sherwood SR1 is a great option. If you are looking for a bullet proof cold water reg, the SR1 is not your regulator. Sorry Sherwood.
Find a local Sherwood Scuba authorized dealer to learn more about this reg. It does perform quite well in warm water. Ease of breathing and style are this regulators major selling points.
