Let’s Talk About ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket
The ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket from ONYX is designed to provide peace of mind on the water. This U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type V life jacket is a convertible auto/manual inflatable PFD, meaning it inflates upon immersion or with a pull of the “Jerk to Inflate” handle. It’s a far cry from the bulky, uncomfortable life jackets of yesteryear.
As a seasoned outdoorsman with a decade of tactical gear experience, I needed a reliable PFD that wouldn’t hinder my movements while fishing and kayaking. Traditional life jackets always felt restrictive, and I wanted something that would only activate when needed, but I also wanted the option to manually activate it if necessary. The ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket seemed to offer that perfect blend of automatic and manual functionality.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the sleek, low-profile design. The material felt durable yet lightweight, and the stitching appeared to be high quality. Compared to a standard foam life vest, it felt almost weightless.
I considered other options like the Mustang Survival MD3183 and the Stearns I400, but I chose the ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket because of its competitive price point and auto/manual convertibility. The reviews were promising, and the ONYX brand has a good reputation for quality. I was genuinely excited to see how it performed in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket on a week-long kayak fishing trip in the Florida Everglades. The weather ranged from scorching sun to sudden downpours, providing diverse testing conditions. I was primarily concerned about comfort and maneuverability while casting and paddling.
The ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket proved remarkably comfortable even in the humid heat. I barely noticed I was wearing it. The design allowed for a full range of motion, crucial for kayak fishing.
Initially, I was slightly hesitant about the automatic inflation feature, worried it might accidentally activate during a heavy rain. But after several hours of use, including a brief but intense rain shower, it performed flawlessly. I was able to focus on fishing without any unexpected surprises.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of frequent use, the ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket continues to hold up extremely well. The fabric shows no signs of wear or fading, and the stitching remains intact. I rinsed it with fresh water after each use, and spot cleaned it when necessary. It’s proven very easy to maintain.
Compared to the old foam PFD I used to use, the ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket is a game-changer. It is more comfortable, less bulky, and offers far more peace of mind with its auto-inflation capabilities. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort, functionality, and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket
Specifications
- The ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket is a U.S. Coast Guard Approved Type V Life Jacket / Personal Flotation Device (PFD) with Type III Performance. This means it’s been tested and certified to meet specific safety standards for buoyancy and performance.
- It is designed for adults and is a universal size. This is an important consideration for shared use, as it can fit a wide range of body types.
- It’s designed to automatically inflate upon immersion in water. This is essential in scenarios where the wearer may be incapacitated and unable to manually inflate the jacket.
- It can also be manually inflated by pulling the “Jerk to Inflate” handle. This provides a backup inflation method should the automatic system fail, or in situations where immediate inflation is desired.
- It also includes a back-up oral inflation tube. This allows the user to inflate the vest by mouth if needed in emergency situations.
- It is convertible from AUTO/MANUAL inflation to MANUAL ONLY inflation. This allows the user to disable the automatic inflation in certain situations, such as when repeatedly entering and exiting the water.
Performance & Functionality
The ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket performs its primary function of providing flotation exceptionally well. Its auto-inflation system is reliable, and the manual inflation option provides added assurance.
The ability to convert to manual-only inflation is a significant advantage. It prevents accidental inflation during activities where you might be repeatedly exposed to water.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent; the materials feel durable, and the stitching is robust. The life jacket is lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The low-profile design does not impede movement. It is easy to adjust the straps for a snug and secure fit.
Durability & Maintenance
The ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket is built to last, thanks to its durable materials and construction. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the life jacket is straightforward. Rinsing with fresh water after each use and allowing it to air dry is generally sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket comes with everything needed for basic operation. This includes the CO2 cartridge and the automatic inflation mechanism.
While not strictly customizable, replacement CO2 cartridges are readily available. Some users may choose to add accessories like a whistle or reflective tape for increased safety.
Pros and Cons of ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket
Pros
- U.S. Coast Guard Approved, providing assurance of its safety and performance.
- Auto/Manual Inflation offers versatility and peace of mind in various situations.
- Convertible to Manual Only prevents accidental inflation.
- Lightweight and Comfortable for extended wear without restriction.
- Durable Construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Replacement CO2 cartridges add to the long-term cost of ownership.
- Occasional maintenance (checking CO2 cartridge, rinsing) is required.
Who Should Buy ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket?
The ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket is perfect for anglers, kayakers, recreational boaters, and anyone who spends time on or near the water. It’s also well-suited for those who prioritize safety and want the added assurance of automatic inflation.
This product may not be ideal for individuals who frequently swim or engage in water sports, as the automatic inflation could be a hindrance. Consider a traditional foam life vest in these cases.
A must-have accessory would be a spare CO2 cartridge. Knowing that you have a backup readily available is vital for emergencies.
Conclusion on ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket
The ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket is an excellent investment for anyone seeking a comfortable, reliable, and versatile personal flotation device. The ability to switch between automatic and manual inflation modes provides a level of flexibility that’s hard to beat.
At $189.49, the price is justified given the quality, features, and peace of mind it offers. While the cost of replacement CO2 cartridges should be considered, the safety benefits far outweigh this expense.
I wholeheartedly recommend the ONYX A/M-24 Auto/Manual Life Jacket. It’s a game-changer for anyone who spends time on the water. So, gear up, stay safe, and enjoy your next adventure!