Need to find reliable self inflatable life vest. Many brands on the market. Have heard that some have issues with accidently (?) inflating... which one(s) do you like? Need specifics so I can purchase one that seems good for me. Have also heard that paying most is not always the best?

"befuddled" again...

Man I’ve been using the Onyx AM-24 for several years and never had an issue. I replace the bobbin and co2 gas bottle every three years or so. I wear it 100% of the time in the winter months and when the water it rough the rest of the year. Only while running when it’s nice out, but the older I get the more I seam to keep it on. I’ve never had a false inflation. I tried it when I first got it and it worked. My .02...

This

I have the cabelas auto, never had it go off accidentally and it has been fairly wet a few times.
when you buy one get a recharge kit or even 2 so you have a spare if you need it.

Onyx or Mustang are the only way to go.

Make certain that you get the "H.I.T." model if you go Mustang.

Hydrostatic Inflator Technology will automatically inflate under water pressure, not inadvertently in rain, spray or humidity.

TTT

Get the one you will MAINTAIN and WEAR! They all work as designed, but they won’t save you if they’re in a rod box due to being uncomfortable or not maintained. Can’t put a price on something like this.

Me? I’ve got two Onyx A/M 24’s. Very comfortable with the padded area around the neck. They are around $90 each.

Go to academy and try on Onyx and Mustang for comfort check. I found Mustang rubbed my neck bad. Onyx fits me very comfortably. It may be different for everybody, but I know if I'd bought a Mustang without first trying it on I probably wouldn't wear it due to comfort, so that matters most.

I've read of accidental openings also. Common theme is they're left in a boat or car. I always take mine in the house and hang in a closet so it's not exposed to moisture. No problems yet. Wear it always.

That's the reason for the "H.I.T." system. It operates so that water PRESSURE opens it ...... not water PRESENCE.

Just a warning...some will inflate from heat. I had one go off in the console seat, scared the [censored] out of me. It was in the direct sun in the middle of summer.

bps/cabelas has a good one on sale for 99.00

Same here....I chose it since it has 38lbs of flotation as opposed to most overs only having 24lbs or so.

^^^This

same reason I went with it, more is bettah.

But, only if ya wear it.