Is the Delta 5 Regulator light enough for a sidemount setup?

You need a total weight under 11 ounces for a balanced sidemount rig, and this unit provides a low-mass profile for your configuration.

The 4.8 ounce weight of the Delta 5 Regulator aids sidemount balance

This second stage regulator—the mouthpiece and valve assembly that delivers air to your lungs—weighs 4.8 ounces. We selected this model for our comparison because it sits well below the 10 to 14 ounce weight limit often required for balanced hookah or left-handed setups. The weight figure includes the unit itself, though the data does not state if the low-pressure hose weight is included in that 4.8-ounce total. Because sidemount configurations rely on a balanced distribution of gear along the body, every ounce saved on the regulator allows for more buoyancy or equipment elsewhere. The Delta 5 Regulator holds a 5.0 average across 6 buyers, though such a small sample size settles nothing regarding long-term reliability.

For those wondering about gas limits, see if the Delta 5 supports 40% nitrox.

What to Check Before Buying the Delta 5 Regulator

Before integrating this regulator into your specific sidemount rig, verify these hardware details:

If you need a redundant setup, explore the best backup breathing device for scuba.

• Confirm the orientation of the exhaust port to ensure it does not cause a free-flow—a failure where the regulator fails to close and exhausts air rapidly—in your specific side-mounted position.
• Check if the mounting hardware, such as clips or straps, is included or required separately for your rig.
• Measure your available space to ensure the 8 x 7 x 3 inch dimensions fit your mounting point.
• Verify the specific maintenance intervals required for salt-water exposure to match your intended environment.

Comparing the Delta 5 Regulator to Other Options

The Delta 5 Regulator serves as an all-purpose option for divers who prioritize a lightweight profile. You might look at alternatives if you require a regulator with specific high-end engineering benchmarks, such as those found in the Apeks XTX or Scubapro S620 Ti tiers. While these higher-end models offer different flow characteristics, they often carry more weight than this 4.8-ounce unit.

Divers facing harsh conditions should view the best second stage regulator for extreme environments.

If you need to minimize weight for a sidemount, left-handed, or hookah setup, choose the Delta 5 Regulator. It provides a lightweight profile that fits within the requirements for a balanced, low-mass configuration.

Reviewed by the Scuba Forge editorial team. Scuba Forge writes these guides from the 65 most-reviewed second stage regulator listings in our retail dataset, not from manufacturer copy.