Question My debate - go with a BP/W or stick with a back-inflate BC?

[Zef]

There used to one a long time ago but I can’t remember the brand or model. AFAIK, there are no jackets that have two cam bands on the market currently, but like I said IDK for certain because that is an alien universe to me. I’m not sure about back inflates or hybrids either ( to be honest I don’t know the difference). I’ve been a BP/W person now for about 23 years.

I used to have a Triple-L Instructor BCD that had 2 cam straps. I replaced it with a BP/W when the inflator flange separated from the jacket material.

-Z

 

[Chavodel8en]

There used to one a long time ago but I can’t remember the brand or model. AFAIK, there are no jackets that have two cam bands on the market currently, but like I said IDK for certain because that is an alien universe to me. I’m not sure about back inflates or hybrids either ( to be honest I don’t know the difference). I’ve been a BP/W person now for about 23 years.

My long time back-inflate BC I used for both local and travel was something called a Genesis Tropic- it had 2 tank straps. It died in 2020 after about 15 years of loyal service. I looked for a 2 tank strap back inflate BC to replace it, but couldn't find one -- so I went with a BP/W, even though I prefer the adjustability and easy use of a BC.

The HOG Travel Pro BCD (back-inflate) has two tank straps.

 

[Ontwreckdiver]

I have a Sub Gravity aluminum BP & 26 lb wing with an adjustable harness for my travel BC that I love. The adjustable harness is clean, simple and no plastic parts. Paragon Single Tank Package - SubGravity
I would also look at the Dive Rite Hydro Lite for a non BP/W option . Hydro Lite BCD - Dive Rite

 

[lexvil]

Bottom line, BP/W is more versatile but if you buy the hydros you’ll be perfectly happy with it.

 

[BoltSnap]

I find the Hydros Pro as flexible and customizable as can be for the recreational diver at all levels (single tank diving). It has a lot of the customization accessories included or available to buy. It even comes with two harnesses, travel and weight integrated harnesses. Can be packed very compactly and is very light. I managed to put the Hyros Pro, regulator set, mask/fins, light wetsuit, boots and gloves into the backpac it comes with the Hydros Pro with the fins attached to the backpac on the outside. The net weight I use with steel BP/W bc is the same with the Hydros, the same also with the AL BP/W kit, no disadvantage to the Hyros pro in terms of buoyancy. The Hydros comes with rear trim weight pockets but a BP/W don't and you have to pay for that with the BP/W.

 

[happy-diver]

LOOK THE 6MM IS BACK IN STOCK LOOK THE 6MM IS BACK IN STOCK LOOK THE 6MM IS BACK IN STOCK

Stainless Steel Backplate - SubGravity

Stainless-steel backplate, 3 mm or 6mm, made of salt water resistant 316 stainless-steel. Edges bevelled on a NC cutter, manually polished for perfect flattening of sharp edges, which could prematurely wear the strap.

sub-gravity.com

 

[KenE]

The best advice I can give you is to rent a BP/W and try it. Then you will know which is better for you. I have dove traditional BC, Hydros, and BP/W. I currently dive a traditional BC and will likely move to Hydros or significantly modified BP/W in the future. Injuries made it difficult to use the hogarthian BP/W that I tried, Hydros pushed me too far forward, I am a bit lopsided that way anyway. So, I invested in traditional BC. It has served me well, but I can't say it is what is best for you or anyone else. I believe a modified BP/W or Hydros will work for me but can't justify the cost until my puddle jacket creates problems or limitations. I just dive and enjoy it, keep it simple, as long as it works.

 

[happy-diver]

Rent schment, test with a view to purchase.

 

[wetb4igetinthewater]

The Hydros comes with rear trim weight pockets but a BP/W don't and you have to pay for that with the BP/W.

Compare the cost of the BP/W plus extra weight pockets to the cost of the Hydros. Maybe half the price at most? Hydros Pro is $1169 in the US new. $534 for the DGX system with the largest weight pockets.

 

[Pressurehead]

Hydros Pro is $1169 in the US new.

Why are you guys are paying $400 US more for the Hydros pro than us ?
I also bought another one with out the weight pockets, just the simple harness for $360 US, new.
A basic SS plate and Hogarthian Harness with a 23lb Single Tank 360 Wing is $550 US here, I know, I have one.

No need to answer that, this subject has come up in the past.
Off topic, again, sorry.