Scubapro G260

At a glance

The G260 is a full regulator: environmentally sealed balanced diaphragm first stage plus a balanced, adjustable second stage, 862 g for both. Four low-pressure and two high-pressure ports cover recreational and light technical rigging, and it ships nitrox-ready to 40% oxygen out of the box. The VIVA venturi switch handles surface free-flow.

What the regulator actually gives you

Where it wins and where it costs you

Full review: Scubapro G260

Sold as a matched pair, the G260 puts an environmentally sealed balanced diaphragm first stage in front of a balanced, adjustable second stage, and the whole assembly weighs 862 g. The sealed first stage keeps moisture and particulates away from the mechanism, which is what makes the cold-water and silty-water claims credible rather than marketing. Out of the box it is rated for nitrox up to 40% oxygen, so the common recreational mixes need no service visit or special preparation.

The second stage carries two controls that matter underwater: a diver-adjustable inhalation effort knob and the VIVA venturi switch. Set VIVA to pre-dive at the surface and the regulator will not free-flow when it is dangling; flip it to dive and the venturi assist opens up when you are working against current. Breathing effort stays flat as tank pressure falls because the valve is pneumatically balanced, and the exhaust tee vents clear of the mask, which underwater photographers notice immediately.

Port layout is four low-pressure and two high-pressure, enough for a primary, an alternate, an inflator and a console without forcing awkward hose angles. The body combines chrome-plated brass with technopolymer, so it survives salt exposure while keeping the weight sane, and Scubapro's parts network makes servicing straightforward anywhere in the world. Two honest complaints: it is heavier than modern travel regulators, and those useful adjustment knobs protrude enough to catch on a line or a wreck edge.