Snoot advice

[Whiskeyjack]

Has someone used the Backscatter Snoot on the MF1/MF2 and the Retra LSD? I'm curious how they compare. I currently have an MF1 and an MF2 with the snoot and quite like using that setup, but recently picked up some Retra Pro max strobes for wide angle.

 

If I could reduce my kit to only having the Retras that would be great. I'm kind of concerned the Retras with the LSD would be so much bulkier than the backscatter MF2 + strobe it would be harder to position/maneuver into tight sports, etc.

[TimG]

Get the Retra LSD. The combination with the ProMax is terrific. I’ve never had a problem with manoeuvring it in tight spaces. 

[ChipBPhoto]

1 hour ago, Whiskeyjack said:

Has someone used the Backscatter Snoot on the MF1/MF2 and the Retra LSD? I'm curious how they compare. I currently have an MF1 and an MF2 with the snoot and quite like using that setup, but recently picked up some Retra Pro max strobes for wide angle.

 

If I could reduce my kit to only having the Retras that would be great. I'm kind of concerned the Retras with the LSD would be so much bulkier than the backscatter MF2 + strobe it would be harder to position/maneuver into tight sports, etc.

Hi @Whiskeyjack,

 

Yes, I have used both the Backscatter and Retra LSD snoots.  In my opinion, both are excellent!  There is, of course, the obvious size difference between them.

 

Pros I found for Retra LSD: 

 - Larger size allows it to easily be moved.  By keeping my clamps relatively loose, I can maneuver the LSD by grabbing the snoot neck.  
 - Using the LSD allows only the normal strobes to be packed.  This reduces batteries and accessories needed.

 - I found the aiming light to be very good, even in shallow, bright water.  This is critical for effective snoot use.

 - Larger battery capacity eliminates chance of running out of power during a long, multi-hour shallow dive.

 

 

Pros I found for BS MF Snoot:

 - Much smaller size and very easy to position.  I often aim the snoot by grabbing the MF body vs the snoot itself.

 - Smaller size in water feels more liberating.  It is also easier to position in some tighter situations.

 - Smaller snoot size allows me to easily remove it and clip it on my rig or BC without fear of loosing it.

 - Having at least 1 MF strobe on a trip also doubles as a small backup should a main strobe fail.

 - Aiming light is also very good in bright water.  
Note - I have had the battery run down in a long, multi-hour shallow dive.  I mitigate this by turning the aiming light off, and even turning the strobe off while searching for subjects.

 

 

The price for both is relatively similar, about $200 difference.  Again, I find both to be excellent options.  It really comes down to which features and scenarios best fit your personal priorities.  
 

Hope this helps!

chip

 

Edited October 18 by ChipBPhoto

[Whiskeyjack]

Thanks for the opinions! I do like the compact size of the backscatter setup but I can't help but think the Retra will give better light. Does the LSD have more flexibility with the distance the strobe needs to be from the subject?

[TimG]

I can’t compare the two as I’ve never used the BS one. 
 

I can’t say I’ve ever had an issue with lighting any subject with the LSD.
 

I have an LSD-fitted Retra Max on my left hand held with a 5” + 8” ULCS arms fitted with Stix floats.

 

As Chip suggests, don’t clamp them down to hard but just enough so they are easy to move with your left hand. I use the LSD tube as the manoeuvring handle. Fitted with one of the slide masks, and away you go…. 

 

 

[ChipBPhoto]

53 minutes ago, Whiskeyjack said:

Thanks for the opinions! I do like the compact size of the backscatter setup but I can't help but think the Retra will give better light. Does the LSD have more flexibility with the distance the strobe needs to be from the subject?

As far as quality of light and distance, I never really noticed anything remarkably different between them.  The Retras are fantastic for wide, even coverage.  A snoot in general lights a much smaller area.  With that said, the LSD does have a wider diameter tube than the BS due to its design.  This, in conjunction with the various inserts to reduce the size or change the light shape seems to potentially offer a few more options.  It’s really splitting hairs at that point.

 

To me, it really comes down to do you want to carry just 1 set of strobes/batteries?  If so, the LSD is the way to go.  This should also have less of a worry about battery life during a long dive.

 

If you want smaller, more dedicated functionality, the BS system is solid. 

 

Not to sound flippant, but if you already have the Retras, go ahead and order an LSD.  It’s not a huge investment, relatively speaking.  If you end up not liking it, you should have no issue reselling it on this board.  
 

Edited October 18 by ChipBPhoto

[CaolIla]

56 minutes ago, ChipBPhoto said:

Not to sound flippant, but if you already have the Retras, go ahead and order an LSD.  It’s not a huge investment, relatively speaking.  If you end up not liking it, you should have no issue reselling it on this board.  

I buy a LSD here to try it and compare with my self made snoot... the idea is probably to sale it again in some month...

I want to build a "better" one  🤣

[Whiskeyjack]

Yeah I already have the Backscatter system and don't really have any issues with it, it does what I want it to... but if they are about the same then I'll likely offload the Backscatter stuff just to have lest gear to haul around!  Thanks everyone for the opinions.