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Sherwood SR2 Regulator Review: Smooth Breathing Power in a Compact Design

By: Brian Young  ● Updated: October, 2025  ● Min read

The Sherwood SR2 is built for divers who want a compact and responsive regulator that performs smoothly at any depth.

It’s Sherwood’s top model, combining an environmentally sealed balanced piston first stage with a pneumatically balanced second stage. This design ensures steady airflow even under high demand.

The SR2 is lightweight, corrosion resistant, and offers cold-water protection, making it reliable for both travel and local dives.

In this review, you’ll find out how it performs underwater, what makes it stand out, and if it’s the right fit for your diving needs.

Sherwood Sr2 Reivew

Sherwood SR2

Sherwood SR2 Regulator Review

Our Overall Score:

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Sherwood Scuba

Disclaimer: This review is based on personal experiences and opinions of the author and may differ from others.

Comfort & Ergonomics

Lightweight second stage reduces jaw fatigue and allows natural hose routing

Performance & Ease of Use

Consistent airflow with smooth inhalation and excellent depth performance

Build Quality & Durability 

Solid construction with corrosion-resistant materials and sealed internals

Maintenance 

Service kits available through Sherwood dealers; requires proper technician for sealed system

Value For Money

Premium-level performance at a mid-range price point

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Sherwood SR2

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All Need to Know About the Sherwood SR2 Regulator:
Key Features and Benefits

The Sherwood SR2 combines advanced engineering with a compact build to deliver reliable performance across different diving conditions. Its balance of power, precision, and comfort makes it one of Sherwood’s most refined regulators to date. Below are its key standout features.

Balanced Flow-Through Piston First Stage

The SR2 uses a balanced flow-through piston design that maintains consistent airflow regardless of tank pressure. This setup provides effortless breathing even at depth. Unlike many piston systems, it’s environmentally sealed to keep out contaminants and salt, reducing internal wear over time.

Compact Second Stage with Adjustable Controls

The pneumatically balanced second stage lets you fine-tune your breathing effort with an adjustable knob and Venturi lever. You can increase resistance for surface use or open it up for deeper dives when you need unrestricted airflow. Divers often note how natural the breathing feels once adjusted properly.

Environmentally Sealed System

The dry-sealed first stage prevents water, silt, and salt from entering the internal chamber. This not only extends the regulator’s life but also helps prevent freezing in cold conditions. It makes the SR2 suitable for both warm tropical dives and cooler environments.

Lightweight and Travel-Friendly Design

The regulator’s compact profile and reduced weight make it easy to pack for trips without sacrificing performance. The streamlined second stage also reduces jaw fatigue on long dives, which frequent travelers and photographers will appreciate.

High-Performance Breathing at Depth

Independent tests and user feedback report a low work-of-breathing rating of less than 0.5 joules per liter at 165 feet. Airflow remains steady even under heavy exertion, giving you consistent performance throughout your dive.

Sherwood SR2 Second Stage

Sherwood SR2: Manufacturer's Specification

1st Stage Design:

Piston

1st Stage Type:

Balanced

Environmentally Sealed

Yes

Number of Ports:

2 High-Pressure (HP) / 5 Low-Pressure (LP)

2nd Stage Type:

Pneumatically balanced 

Adjustable 2nd Stage:

Adjustable inhalation effort, Venturi switch

Materials:

Chrome-plated marine brass, stainless steel, and polymer components

Weight:

Approx. 2.6 lb (1.18 kg) combined

Regulator Connection:

DIN (300 bar), Yoke (232 bar)

Water Temp Range:

Warm, Cold, Temperate

Our Rating: Sherwood SR2 Review

Sherwood Sr2 Reivew

Overall Score

4.5/5

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4.5/5

Comfort & Ergonomics

The compact second stage is lightweight and comfortable in the mouth. The hose routing is clean, and divers report minimal jaw fatigue during long dives.

5.0/5

Breathing Performance & Ease of Use

The SR2 delivers smooth, consistent airflow at all depths. Its balanced piston design and adjustable controls make breathing effortless even under heavy exertion. The Venturi assist helps prevent free flows while maintaining easy inhalation.

4.5/5

Build Quality & Durability

Constructed from chrome-plated brass and stainless steel, the SR2 feels solid and well-built. The sealed design keeps internal parts free from salt and sediment, helping it maintain performance after years of diving.

4.0/5

Maintenance & Serviceability

The regulator’s sealed system requires slightly more effort to service, but parts and service kits are available through most Sherwood dealers. Routine maintenance every 12 months keeps it in top condition.

4.5/5

Value for Money

The SR2 sits at the higher end of Sherwood’s range but offers features usually found in premium regulators. It’s a strong choice for divers who want performance, comfort, and reliability without paying top-tier prices.

What We Like:

✅ Excellent Breathing Performance

The SR2 provides a smooth and consistent airflow even at depth. Its balanced piston and Venturi assist deliver effortless breathing during ascent and descent. Divers often mention how natural it feels underwater, even in demanding conditions.

✅ Compact and Comfortable

The lightweight second stage sits comfortably in your mouth and reduces jaw fatigue on long dives. Its compact size also makes it easier to pack for travel while maintaining full-sized performance.

✅ Environmentally Sealed System

The dry-sealed first stage keeps out water, salt, and contaminants. This design not only improves durability but also makes it suitable for cold-water diving, preventing freeze-ups in low temperatures.

✅ Solid Construction and Materials

Built with chrome-plated brass and stainless steel, the SR2 withstands years of use without showing corrosion. It’s made for divers who log many dives each year and want gear that lasts.

✅ Adjustable and Customizable Airflow

The adjustable inhalation knob and Venturi switch allow divers to fine-tune their breathing resistance. Whether you prefer an easier draw or tighter control, the regulator adapts to your personal comfort.

What We Don't Like:

❌ Limited Service Availability

Sherwood’s service network is smaller than some major brands. Finding replacement parts or certified technicians can be harder, especially in remote dive destinations.

❌ Higher Service Complexity

The sealed piston design offers better protection but requires more time and expertise during servicing. This can make annual maintenance slightly more expensive.

❌ Moderate Price for New Divers

The SR2 offers excellent performance but sits above the entry-level price range. Casual or beginner divers may find it more than they need for basic recreational diving.

The Verdict

The Sherwood SR2 stands out as a compact, high-performance regulator built for divers who value smooth breathing and solid engineering. Its balanced flow-through piston design delivers consistent airflow from start to finish, while the sealed system adds protection against corrosion and freezing.

It’s best suited for experienced recreational divers and those moving toward technical or cold-water diving. The comfort, adjustability, and durability make it a strong long-term investment for anyone diving regularly in varying conditions.

If you want premium-level breathing performance without stepping into the top-tier price bracket, the SR2 is one of the best options in its class.

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Sherwood SR2: FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Sherwood SR2 compare to the SR1?

The SR2 improves on the SR1 with a smaller, lighter second stage, better airflow, and a fully dry-sealed first stage. It’s also more efficient and easier to fine-tune underwater.

Can the SR2 be used with Nitrox?

Yes. The SR2 is factory approved for use with Nitrox mixtures up to 40 percent oxygen without modification.

What type of diver will benefit most from the SR2?

The SR2 is best for experienced recreational and advanced divers who dive frequently and want a high-performance regulator that can handle both warm and cold-water conditions.

Have you tried the Sherwood SR2 Regulator? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below! Happy diving!

Continue Reading

Do you want more scuba diving gear recommendations? continue reading these articles below:

Dive Computer | Scuba Regulator | Wetsuits | Scuba BCD | Dive Knife | Dive Mask | Scuba Fins

About the author

Brian Young is a lifelong scuba diver and marine enthusiast. With years of experience exploring some of the Caribbean’s best dive sites, he brings a personal touch and insider knowledge to every article on ScubaDiverHQ.com. Brian specializes in writing in-depth dive guides, gear reviews, and travel insights that help divers of all levels plan unforgettable underwater adventures. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him in the water, guiding dives, testing new equipment, or sharing his passion for ocean conservation.

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