ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness Review

First Impressions of ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness

The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness promises to be a reliable and comfortable inflatable life jacket, especially for those who demand a harness system for added safety. As a seasoned outdoorsman who’s spent countless hours on the water, from tactical maneuvers to serene fishing expeditions, I’m always on the lookout for gear that offers both functionality and peace of mind.

My pursuit of the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness stemmed from a need for a life jacket that wouldn’t hinder my movements during sailing and tactical drills. I was seeking a solution that combined the security of a harness with the low profile and automatic inflation of a modern PFD (Personal Flotation Device).

Upon unboxing, my first impression was positive. The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness felt substantial without being overly heavy; the materials appeared robust, and the integrated harness straps felt reassuringly strong. Compared to a traditional foam-filled life jacket or even a manual inflatable PFD, the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness seemed to strike a better balance between bulk and safety features.

I considered the Mustang Survival MIT 100 and the Spinlock Deckvest 5D before ultimately choosing the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness. The Mustang Survival MIT 100, while reputable, lacked the integrated harness loops that I desired, and the Spinlock Deckvest 5D, while boasting premium features, came with a price tag that was harder to justify. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see how the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness would perform under real-world conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness was a sailing trip on the Chesapeake Bay, followed by a simulated overboard drill in a controlled environment. I aimed to evaluate its performance in both recreational and potentially critical situations. The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness performed admirably in varying conditions, from calm waters under sunny skies to moderately choppy seas with a light drizzle.

The ease of use was immediately apparent; the front zipper made donning and doffing the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness simple, even while wearing bulky clothing. The harness loops integrated seamlessly, providing a secure attachment point without restricting movement.

The only initial issue I encountered was a slight adjustment period to find the perfect fit for the harness straps, but this was easily rectified within minutes. There were no other surprises, and the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness instilled confidence from the get-go.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple sailing trips and tactical training exercises, the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness continues to impress. The life jacket shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after exposure to saltwater and abrasion from gear. Maintenance has been straightforward, primarily involving rinsing with fresh water after each use and periodic checks of the inflation system.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper inflatable PFDs, the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness surpasses them in both durability and comfort. The robust construction and thoughtful design have alleviated any concerns I had about its long-term reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness

Specifications

• The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness is a U.S. Coast Guard-approved inflatable life jacket, designed for adults with chest sizes ranging from 30″ to 65″. This broad range ensures a comfortable and secure fit for a wide variety of users.
• It features both water-activated and manual pull-cord inflation options, offering redundancy for reliable deployment in emergencies. This dual system is crucial for ensuring activation even if one system fails.
• The jacket weighs in at 2.53 lbs, making it lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. This low weight is critical for reducing fatigue during long days on the water.
• High-visibility reflective material enhances visibility in low-light conditions, increasing the chances of rescue. This is essential for safety, especially during nighttime or inclement weather.
• The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness is designed with soft harness loops for added security and functionality. These loops provide a secure attachment point for tethers or other safety equipment, increasing safety in rough conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness performs its primary function – providing buoyancy and security – exceptionally well. The automatic inflation system is responsive, and the manual pull cord offers a reliable backup. The integrated harness loops add a layer of safety, allowing for secure attachment to a boat or other vessel.

While the inflation system is reliable, the user should familiarize themselves with the rearming process and carry a spare rearming kit. The harness loops, while functional, could benefit from slightly more padding for enhanced comfort during prolonged use. Overall, the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness meets and exceeds expectations, providing a secure and comfortable life-saving solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness boasts a well-thought-out design with a focus on both functionality and comfort. The materials used are of high quality, and the construction feels robust. The front zipper closure makes donning and doffing the jacket easy, and the adjustable straps allow for a customized fit.

There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the harness straps for optimal comfort and security, but once dialed in, the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness becomes second nature. The low-profile design minimizes bulk and allows for a full range of motion.

Durability & Maintenance

The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness appears to be built to last, with durable materials and reinforced stitching. Regular rinsing with fresh water and periodic checks of the inflation system should ensure a long lifespan. The inflation cylinder can be easily replaced using Rearm Kit #1363, ensuring the life jacket remains in optimal working condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness comes with the integrated harness system as its primary “accessory”. While it does not offer extensive customization options, the ability to replace the inflation cylinder with Rearm Kit #1363 is crucial. The harness loops are compatible with a variety of tethers and safety lines from different brands.

Pros and Cons of ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness

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Who Should Buy ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness?

The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness is perfect for sailors, recreational boaters, and anglers who prioritize safety and require a harness system for added security. It’s also well-suited for tactical water operations where freedom of movement and reliable inflation are crucial. This PFD is ideal for anyone seeking a comfortable, durable, and feature-rich inflatable life jacket with an integrated harness.

Those who primarily engage in calm-water activities with minimal risk of falling overboard might find the integrated harness unnecessary and could opt for a simpler, less expensive PFD. Someone looking for a highly customizable PFD with numerous accessory attachment points might find the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness somewhat limiting. A must-have accessory is Rearm Kit #1363, ensuring the ability to quickly and easily rearm the inflation system after use.

Conclusion on ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness

The ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness is a well-designed and expertly crafted inflatable life jacket that delivers on its promises of safety, comfort, and durability. At a price point of $349.99, the value proposition is strong, especially considering the integrated harness system and dual inflation options.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable PFD for sailing, boating, or tactical water operations. The peace of mind it provides is well worth the investment. Take your safety seriously – invest in the ONYX A/M-33 Impulse w/Harness and experience the difference it can make on the water.