>>811407>How much does decent air bag run?I would budget $1k USD for one. Some like my Highmark Pro and the Pieps bags are more (1200-ish), BCA has some around 600.
>any manufactures I should look for?One that fits you well and comfortably, with a pack design that meets your needs.
It's a big investment, if it's not comfortable on you or doesn't work as a pack you probably won't wear it. If you're not wearing it, there's no sense even buying one. Try them on with your gear before you buy one. Even better would be to demo one on the mountain in your preferred sport.
BCA's the least-expensive. Solid bag, couple different varieties for various activities. Their comfort has improved a lot in the past few years.
ABS has been around the longest, with the best protection system (Explosive trigger, N2 cylinder, and individually-valved dual-airbags). Advantage with these bags is the "zip-ons" - you buy the airbag protection harness and "zip on" the pack you want. Can get everything from a zero that just covers the airbag part, to a 45+5 for when you need a lot of shit.
Not as easy to service/maintain because of the trigger and cylinder - it's an exchange (about $40 iirc) vs. reseat a few components, check an O-ring, and fill from a SCUBA tank.
Ortovox has a system similar to ABS.
Snowpulse has the best pack design. Pockets for everything, and I like the head/neck protection that airbag offers. I've been riding with a Snowpulse pack for about 7 years now (one of the first riders in the US).
Pieps/BD has the electronic system, but IMO the bag design needs some work.
More important than brand is that you get one that fits well.
Some manufacturers also offer a vest-style pack. Some guys really like that style, I don't care for them.
>Avalanche org I work with is sponsored by all the avalanche pack brands>Snowpulse is one of my sponsors 