2011 ScubaLab BC Tests: IST J1300 Artemis
IST J1300 Artemis
SPECS
» Style Jacket
» Weight System Mechanical: Ditchable Pouches and Rear Trim Pouches
» Dry Weight 9.45 pounds
www.istsports.com
PRICE RANGE $400 and under
TEST STATS Real-World Performance: 3 (GOOD)
PERFORMANCE
Designed for women, the Artemis weighs a hefty 9.5 pounds but features a shorter overall height and thicker padding on the back, hips and waist, which female testers said added a layer of comfort. Divers were split on the Angled Advanced Ballast Removal weight-pocket system, where a two-part clip on the BC secures the ditchable pouch’s strap and toggle. Though it could be difficult to re-engage the clip while underwater (if you need to add a pound or two to the weight pouch), it was very easy to release and provides an extra layer of security. Testers found two D-rings were oddly placed on the BC’s inner wall, though everyone liked the large, zippered storage pockets. Overall, testers found the Artemis performed well in most areas, receiving above-average marks for its inflator assembly and dump-valve operation.
BEST FOR Women, entry-level diving, general recreational diving
Performance Summary
Carrie Garcia
IST J1300 Artemis
SPECS
» Style Jacket
» Weight System Mechanical: Ditchable Pouches and Rear Trim Pouches
» Dry Weight 9.45 pounds
www.istsports.com
PRICE RANGE $400 and under
TEST STATS Real-World Performance: 3 (GOOD)
PERFORMANCE
Designed for women, the Artemis weighs a hefty 9.5 pounds but features a shorter overall height and thicker padding on the back, hips and waist, which female testers said added a layer of comfort. Divers were split on the Angled Advanced Ballast Removal weight-pocket system, where a two-part clip on the BC secures the ditchable pouch’s strap and toggle. Though it could be difficult to re-engage the clip while underwater (if you need to add a pound or two to the weight pouch), it was very easy to release and provides an extra layer of security. Testers found two D-rings were oddly placed on the BC’s inner wall, though everyone liked the large, zippered storage pockets. Overall, testers found the Artemis performed well in most areas, receiving above-average marks for its inflator assembly and dump-valve operation.
BEST FOR Women, entry-level diving, general recreational diving
Performance Summary