If it's the only life vest in the boat, are u gonna get dinges by gamewarden fir not having it on while fishing etc. I will take mine off when in calm waters fishing etc

If comfort and convenience are your top priority I hear those Mustangs are very comfortable and reliable. But if safety is your biggest concern you might want to buy a very good traditional Type 3 life jacket. You want something that will keep your face out of the water if you end-up floating and unconscious. Also, those inflatables provide absolutely no protection for your chest and ribs if you should be thrown against something in or out of the boat.

If I�m not mistaken, you have to wear an inflatable all the time while a standard jacket can be off but within reach in case you�re checked by TPW.

Hodges Marine has the Mustang Hydrostatics for $195.00. List on those are $292.85. Almost a hundred off. Best deal I found.

I have one from West Marine that uses the same reload as Mustang, well it inflated a month ago and I can't get the new bobbin in to reload it.

If your just looking for something for cold weather look into a float coat.i have a suit made by idigear called arctic armour, but mustang makes a good one too.they keep you warm as well as float you if you fall

I bought the $289 Mustang hydrostatic at BPS 3 years ago. It is by far the most comfortable vest out of the many I tried. You won't keep it on if it's not comfortable. Have never had a problem, and wear it at all times on the water. I fish alone 90% of the time and like the security of always having it on. I saw a video where Ray Scott jumped in the water with this model on - it inflated quickly and floated him vertically with his head out of the water. Good insurance in my (and my wife's) opinion.

I got a SOSpenders life vest from the college fishing national championship and its sweet.

Cabelas had their $109 Auto-inflate model on sale for $79 yesterday--not sure how long the sale lasts. I bought one and I guess I'll let you know how well it works next time I end up in the lake. It's much more comfortable than the old vests I've used(or not used) before, so hopefully I'll do better about keeping it on. Its not as comfortable as Mustang models I've worn in other boats.

You might consider the recharge price in your decision. The one that cost $289 has a recharge kit for $80. The one that cost $229 and less is on $30 on the recharge kit. They recommend a new recharge kit yearly.

Actually the $289 mustang is supposed to need no maintenance for 5 yrs unless it is fired.