I and others have used the “cheaper” finger pulse oximeters for years when we fly into class A with gliders.

Special waiver/clearance needed here.

 

They are very useful. It’s amazing that you can actually optimize your o2 saturation with correct breathing techniques.

Deep breadths, in through your nose, out through your mouth. Some people have indicated that slight holding breadth helps too.

I have not tried that.

 

At times I have been able to maintain good saturation at 15000 ft without o2, but I usually go on at 10-12000 ft.

I have been to 20-22000 ft with a cannula.  

 

Many people when they are relaxed and do not think about it, breath in and out through the nose or the mouth and also tend to breath shallow.

 

I also use the mountain high pulsed o2 system via a cannula. 

With good technique you can use a cannula to a higher altitltude than recommended (required ? maybe some reg, I am not sure).

A face mask is a pain in the … if you do not have one with integrated mike.

I carry both and use the 02 saturation to indicate when to change over.

 

r.t.s.