I have two of the onix a/m 24 life jackets that are automatic and have the manual option as well and haven't had a problem with them. I've worn them in heavy rain for 8 hours and they didn't inflate. I had one that got submerged in water that did inflate and it cost about $20 to re-arm. Doesn't take much time to re arm either. They run for just under $100 and you can usually find them on sale at a decent price. I got mine at academy when it first opened in Louisville for $50 a piece! I think it's a great starter jacket at a reasonable price. Very lightweight as well.