Can't decide - Odyseey or Vector

[Spatula 0]

I can't decide now that the skyhook is available on both rigs. So give me your opinion. I like both rigs (looks wise), both offer spacer foam, articulation, stainless, etc....Both have comparable lead times (14+ weeks)...price too is comparable....

So with that, what sets the two apart...the only thing I can think of is magnetic riser covers on the V3....

So which would you choose given all that?? Help me decide!!

Thanks.

[waltappel 1]

A Racer, of course--but that's just me.

Have you tried on both rigs and jumped with them?

Walt

[Spatula 0]

No, I haven't. I don't have access to either rig that's relatively new and in my sizes. I've tried on a new Micron that was loaded, but it had a 120 in it. 190 to 120 doesn't sound fun too me. I've tried on new javelins, again not in my size or close to it (canopy size)..both felt great.

My first rig has been a Mirage G3, great rig, used...but not sized just right...it was nice but not just right, ya know?

[waltappel 1]

In my experience, one of the biggest benefits of ordering a new rig is getting the custom fit. They do not all fit and feel the same even though made to your body size. I would highly recommend waiting until you can try on each rig with canopies.

Walt

[Unstable 9]

Quote

A Racer, of course--but that's just me.

Damn. you beat me to it. Okay, I second the racer Motion.

=========Shaun ==========

[darkwing 5]

Be careful with UPT. I just tried to get a rig, and a couple of the options on their order form aren't yet really available on all size rigs. Specifically magnetic riser covers and spacer foam.

There are lots of excellent rigs in general, including vectors, Mirage, Infinity... Delivery times vary considerably, up to 25 weeks for some well known rigs (Yes, I just got that figure from a mfr for delivery of one of theirs).

-- Jeff
My Skydiving History

[hookitt 1]

If you are set on the skyhook, my opinion would be get the Vector. The javelin has not impressed me in regards to main/reserve container sizing,(mismatched to the canopies selected even though it was noted on the order form) riser and pin protection and bulkiness.they're ok, but i believe they are not the best regardless of popularity.

While I prefer a different brand of rig, the vector is quite nice.No complaints worth mentioning. You will like the new reserve ripcord too.

Good luck

My grammar sometimes resembles that of magnetic refrigerator poetry... Ghetto

[nbblood 0]

Is the retractable reserve ripcord available on Vectors now?

I love the spacer foam on my Odysseys. It's the single option that got me to order another one. (Other manufacturers still didn't have it at the time). I like the Odyssey for a myriad of reasons, but there are also other great rigs out there. Spacer foam is what sold me, again.

However, the Vector is a great rig too. I somewhat believe that different rigs feel more comfortable to each individual. Take your Mirage, for example. I know lots of people that love them and think they are comfortable. I think they're the most bulky, uncomfortable rig out there. But that's me. I agree with the "try it on" theory. Go with your instinct too. You can get an opinion on every rig out there on this board. You've already heard the Racer opinion. You can also hear the reverse side of every opinion. For example, I'd never even think about getting a Racer.

The bottom line is, if you buy what makes other people happy, they will be, for about a minute. If you buy what makes you happy, you will be, as long as you own the rig. Take your pick.

Blues,
Nathan

If you wait 'til the last minute, it'll only take a minute.

[2shay 0]

I love my vector 3. secondary riser covers are a plus, main pin protection is better. Bill Booth is a genious, his designs have lead the way for a while and keeps coming up with new and better ideas. I have owned a javelin and have a lot of friends with javelins and am not impressed. I have experineced and seen open riser covers, main flaps open, pilot chute pertruding from pop top. I think the javelin is well crafted, but they haven't really changed much about the functionality of the rig in a long time. I do think both are good rigs, but the v3 has all bases covered. I think the v3's are easier to repack as well. No rig is foolproof but some are more safe than others.

don't try your bullshit with me!!!

[billvon 3,000]

Right now I'd go with the Vector. Sunpath just switched over to the Skyhook-ready configuration, and I think they may have a few tweaks before they get everything right with that.

[diablopilot 2]

Infinity. Simple, Clean, Comfortable, Affordable.

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You're not as good as you think you are. Seriously.

[3331 137]

Look here http://www.jumpshack.com/ for gear.

Training wheels, bells, flashing lights and whistles are available.

I Jumped with the guys who invented Skydiving.

[FreeflyGoat 0]

My Opinion

1.Mirage
2.Vector
3.Infinity
4.Javelin
Never. Racer

_________________________
goat
derka jerka bukkake jihad

[Kimblair13 0]

Infinity!!

[councilman24 37]

IMHO skyhook availability is NOT enough to limit my choice of rig to these two. I've debated this before but I just don't think it's enough to throw everybody else out of the running.

But, there is a big difference between the two reserve systems on a Vector and a Javelin. Vectors have a non molar bag with the reserve loop going through the stacked container. In addition they have four flaps over the reserve pilot chute and a total of seven over the bag.

Vectors are made under the 1970's Wonderhog TSO C23b approval. As a very technical legal matter you can only legally put a TSO C23b reserve (not many) or a TSO c23d reserve with an average peak opening force during testing of less than 5000lb in a Vector. This leaves out all but the biggest and smallest PD reserves as well as many others.

The Javelin has a partially external pilot chute. There are only two flaps over the reserve PC and a total of four over the bag. Hmmm now five with the skyhook. The bag is a molar bag, the loop never contacts the reserve canopy.

Javelins are made under TSO C23c cat. b and, again, in very technical legal interpretation ONLY a reserve that is certified under the same TSO and category can be put in it.

These difference are only a small representation of the many, many differences in construction and design.

The legal matter of reserve compatibility is one that most riggers are ignoring or don't know about, the PIA is recommending continuing the current practices because of technical errors in AC 105, and for the most part isn't an issue. But check with your rigger to ensure that he/she will service the combination you choose.

Okay, have I filled your head with more questions than answers? GOOD! Because in choosing a rig you should ask a lot more questions than those you indicated in your post. And putting a poll up here is not a particularly meaningful way to choose.

If you didn't understand some of what I posted, and I really didn't expect you to, you should set down with an experienced rigger and get some of these things explained. Maybe you won't care. And maybe you shouldn't. Many people buy cars based on the color and price. And that's fine. But others want to know the service history, the crash test results, the engine details, the horse power, the torque, the suspension, etc.

Consciously decide which buyer you want to be.

Hmmm, I must be in a pissy mood today, but a popularity vote really isn't the best way to pick a rig.

I'm old for my age.
Terry Urban
D-8631
FAA DPRE

[billvon 3,000]

>but a popularity vote really isn't the best way to pick a rig.

WHAT? How will he know what the popular rigs are? You don't want to be the only guy on your drop zone with, say, an Infinity - that's embarrassing.

But seriously, just about any of the rigs out there will be work, but they are all different. Spend some time looking at other jumper's rigs, trying them on, demoing them (where possible) and talking to riggers about them. The manufacturers are a great source of info too, but understandably biased.

[councilman24 37]

Or be two of the people on here that jump a Reflex! A what?

I'm old for my age.
Terry Urban
D-8631
FAA DPRE

[ZigZagMarquis 9]

If its a rig with a skyhook you want, IMO, I'd go with the Vector.

Why? I'm a bit "down" on Sunpath right now for how badly they've handled the whole "RSL issue". But that's just me, take it or leave it.

IMO also, if its a skyhook you want, point in favor of going with the Vector... two words... Bill Booth.

[NewClearSports 0]

I'm completely with you on the Skyhook, I think it will be a must for my next rig too.
I think the Vector is awsome, I just HATE the Pig!

If you can loose the Pig Logo thing, go for the Vector

[BikerBabe 0]

I didn't vote. I love my infinity, and will probably never buy a different rig...so comfortable, simple, AFFORDABLE, and they have the best customer service out there, as far as i'm concerned.

If you REQUIRE a skyhook, i have found the odysseys to be a better fit on smaller people, if that is a factor for you.

Good luck!

Never meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy and taste good with ketchup!

[billstap 0]

all i can say i love my jav ody, as you can see i dont have a lot of experience but i do know i like what i have so thats my 2 cents

[tbrown 26]

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Infinity. Simple, Clean, Comfortable, Affordable.

JP, have you heard anything about Velocity Sports getting licensed to install Skyhooks ?

That would really be da' bom !

Your humble servant.....Professor Gravity !

[diablopilot 2]

No but I haven't asked Kelly. Don't know how he feels about the idea.

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You're not as good as you think you are. Seriously.

[skydiverek 63]

Quote

Javelins are made under TSO C23c cat. b and, again, in very technical legal interpretation ONLY a reserve that is certified under the same TSO and category can be put in it.

He is asking about the Oddysey, and they are made under TSO C23d.

[Spatula 0]

To be honest, part of my intention with this thread was to hopefully get responses like this, from individuals like you. My choice in rig is most certainly not limited to the criteria I posted, but for the poll sake it was enough.

I've spoken w/my rigger and others on my DZ. I've tried on what ever is in my sizes and fit. Some rigs I have yet to see in two plus years in the sport (Infinity) but I'd love to.

Bill made an excellent observation and comment which I appreciate about the Jav's and the skyhook which I will take under consideration.

I've seen first hand 3 skyhook cutaways (not intentional) and about 10 or so non-skyhook equipped cutaways and I was most certainly impressed. Would I consider a rig w/out a skyhook...yes I certainly would...

Choosing a container is difficult, I've demoed canopies and that made my choice very easy. Finding a container in a comparable size, holding the canopies I jump is not easy. I've yet to see a Vector (newer model) in m sizes at my DZ. I've not seen a Mirage that big,etc... The average jumper with newer gear is at the 170 or smaller range in canopies. Plus I'm a bigger fella (athletic, 6'1, 210), so harness size comes into play as well..

Thank you to all who posted with great advice, and to those who sent PM's. I appreciate the comments.