I bought a Cabelas Guardian 3500 auto/manual inflate PFD today partly because they had them mismarked at $74, but I got to wondering, what are the significant differences between say the one I bought and a $250 Mustang PFD.  I don't really want to spend a huge amount of money, but this thing could someday save my life and if there are significant benefits to spending more $$, I will.

One thing to consider ......

In terms of boating laws:

I originally got the one you got.  It's considered a USCG-Type V floatation device.  In order for it to be considered a life preserver it must be worn.  Just laying in the boat doesn't count.  If you plan on wearing it at all times then no big deal.

So I eventually exchanged it and upgraded to the Guardian Tournament 3500.  It's about $50 more, but it is considered a USCG-Type III floatation device.  It does not have to be worn to be considered a life vest.  Which I personally like.  

Just something to consider.  

Can't help you out on the difference on the Mustangs vs Cabelas.  For what it's worth I tested mine out last year and it worked like it should.  Put me face up.

This maybe a stupid question, but are you required to have it on at all times or just having it in the boat?  I know the only way it is effective is if I have it on, i only ask because several times last year there were rangers checking fishing permits and said nothing of the fact that I didn't have one on, only on my boat.

That's what I was getting at.

The one you got is a Type V.  To be legal it must be worn at all times.

The one I have is a Type III.  Legally I am OK if it is just in the boat.  I like that because I only wear mine when the water is sub 60*, windy, or at night.

guess I may be taking it back and exchanging it.

Funny..I thought all inflatables were considered type V's. Wonder whats makes the cabelas model different from the others to be classified as a type III ?

Just a heads up, if you are looking at autos I have seem them go off in heavy rains and water coming over side on rough rides. They make a Hydrostatic Activation system that avoids this but cost more.

Just a heads up, if you are looking at autos I have seem them go off in heavy rains and water coming over side on rough rides. They make a Hydrostatic Activation system that avoids this but cost more.

I am going to be fishing out of a 9' pond hopper type boat so if the wind is up enough for water to be coming over the bow, I won't be on the water and living in Kansas, usually Heavy rain is accompanied by thunder and lightning, so again, I will be no where near the water at that time, But thanks for the heads up.