Talon 2, T-5,+ a Triathalon 175

[steve1 5]

I have a Talon 2, T-5 container. I am considering purchasing a Triathalon 175 or 160. I'm just wondering how tight the 175 would be. I know that this is getting toward the upper end for container capacity. I know it will probably fit, but I don't want to struggle too much to close it, each time I pack. I am also considering buying a Triathalon 160 because I know it will pack up easier. The only problem is that I may be downsizing too quickly. I have about a 100 square jumps, about 300 para-commander jumps, about 50 t-10 army jumps. I know I should try one out before I buy. The smallest canopy I've jumped so far has been a Triathalon 190. It didn't seem much hotter than my falcon 195. So I think I could handle a triathalon 175, but going to a 160 may not be smart. I've read that Triathalons are fairly docile and forgiving. I weigh about 180 without gear. I'm just trying to add all this up in my relatively inexperienced mind and come up with the right canopy to buy. I would appreciate your input and ideas.

[tlshealy 0]

Steve,
I just bought a tri 160 used this summer, I'm a little heavier than you, and thought it might be a little small. I was impressed at how easy it was to get nice landings, especially with a little wind. After only about 30 jumps on it , I wouldn't want anything bigger. Have someone explain the Zero-P flair to you and give one a try if you can.
Good luck and blue skies
Tad

[riggerrob 643]

I used to pack a Sabre 170 into my Talon 2, T5. It fit gracefully, even in the desert. Since Sabres have about the same pack volume as similar sized Tris, a Tri 160 or 175 should fit gracefully into your T5.

[cloud9 0]

Hey Steve sounds like you and I are kinda in the same boat. I started jumping back in 1975 and quit for a long time just started back this year. I only had 96 jumps. about 70 on para commanders or 28' rounds with double LL or 7TU mods. I had about 26 jumps on a strato Star. When I started back this year I made 3 jumps on a Manta 288, two on a Falcon 265, then started jumping a Triathlon 175. I put about 50 jumps on it and am now jumping a Hornet 150. I weigh about 180 without gear also. I didn't have any problems at all with the transition. With as many jumps as you have you shouldn't have any problems with the triathlon 160.

[steve1 5]

Larry,
Isn't it great to be back jumping. I didn't realize what I was missing. Our old jump club was having a reunion a couple years ago. After a crash training course I went up on a load with some of my old pals. It was my first square jump and we went up and did a 5-way. This probably wasn't the safest thing to do after a 20 year plus lay off, but everything worked out fine. You never forget how to fall stable, or track, etc. I did have some trouble remembering where to pull. On my first series of jumps I kept going in to pull my ripcord but nothing was there. At any rate I'm hooked all over again. I think I'll take your advice and go with the 160 triathalon. Thanks, Steve

[cloud9 0]

Yea Steve
It was great to get back, I'm really amazed at how much the gear has changed. All for the better of course. I'm also amazed at how good these guys are. When I was jumping in the 70's a four way round was about it. I didn't even know what turning points was. The FF, RW and canopy skills are all so much better. Well the FF would have to be if you were in those positions before you were unstable, it wasn't done intentionally. I've just had a blast trying to absorb it all. The boogies are still the same, maybe a little wilder (maybe) but still the same. Also there sure are a lot more ladies on the DZ now. So all in all some great changes.
I know what you mean on the rip cord I looked for it the first few jumps to. Kinda weird having it at the BOC instead of on the chest. But once I got used to it I really like the throw out. Especially when it comes time to pack.
Welcome back, enjoy it all! there is so much available now.

[steve1 5]

Larry,
If you ever get to the Lost Prairie boogie, look me up. Thanks again, Steve

[freeflir29 0]

"Lost Prairie boogie"
Unless I'm dead or flat broke....I'll be there!!! Lookout Kalispell....I'm hookin it in!!!
"and I'm not easily impressed...Ooohh look...a blue car!" -Homer Simpson

[steve1 5]

Clay,
I've only been there once, last summer. Lot's of fun. I used to jump with Fred back in the olden days. See you there next summer. Steve

[lazerq3 0]

Dont know how this compairs but I pack a PD170 into a talon2 T4 with no problem!!
jason