help between AL vs SS??

[sea-glider]

Need some help deciding my first BC!! I am new to diving..

so far i have decided on

Transplate Harness
Vector Wing
Mares Rebel 12
Mares Octo.

now about the plate, which is better for me? SS or AL?

I am currently in Guam and will stay here for 3 years, so mostly diving in tropical waters. however, after 3 years i may get to use it in Japan as well.
also I plan to do single tank diving for the next year or so but like the option in future to do doubles especially since a lot of recs are found off guam. (do i need a STA for single tank?)
I am 74kg and 175cm height (5"7'?) sorry still dont know US measurements...
I will be wearing a 2.5-3 shorty wetsuit..
I am leaning on SS so i dont have to add on too much weight, but with my size will SS bee too heavy??
thanks for taking the time to help.

 

[Scubastud16]

Go with SS. It will serve your needs. Don't know what a vector wing is, but most likely you will need an STA. By the time you're wreck diving, ~100 bucks for a new AL plate and harness won't matter!

Edit: You'll get this from a lot of people, and it's kind of a hot topic, but I really reccomend just the most basic harness. Incredibly easy to set up, and it does everything you need (and more!).

 

[sea-glider]

thanks scubastud.

I will check the basic harness...vector wing is for single tank, sort a V shape so i assume more streamlined..

 

[Dive Rite]

now about the plate, which is better for me? SS or AL?

Hi Sea-glider,

Can I suggest you take a look at our Solution Finder, under 'Should I get a metal backplate?' You might find it helpful and it should give you some ideas in regards to your purchase.
SCUBA Diving Equipment for Technical, Wreck and Cave Diving: Dive Rite, Inc - Solution Finder

Best,
Ag