DSS or Halcyon?

[rstofer]

*Do NOT get an adjustable harness. They are the spawn of satan. Single piece harness works extremely well.

Both harnesses are available from DSS. I like the ProFit harness primarily because it has quick-release buckles for the shoulder straps. I'm too old to try the chicken-wing maneuver.

Another nice thing about the DSS wing is the built-in elastomeric blocks that serve as a single tank adapter. Among other things, this approach keeps the tank closer to your body and helps prevernt roll. There is no need to buy and bolt on a separate STA.

The backplate is superior as well. It has elastomeric grommets at all of the loadbearing slots. This helps pervent chafe on the webbing.

Richard

 

[Fishpie]

If you need a wing with 30lbs of lift (or more) you can't go wrong with any of the big three...Halcyon, DSS or Oxycheq.
If you want a smaller wing you loose Halcyon since they don't have one.

 

[ligersandtions]

Another vote for DSS here. Not only are the products great, but Tobin is the absolute best person to deal with. I can't say enough great things about DSS and Tobin!

 

[MXGratefulDiver]

Hello, All.

IÃÎ looking for a BCD set up. IÃÍl be doing tropical diving but I like the versatility of the bp/w vs. the jacket style. So, what do you think DSS or Halcyon?

Thanks

I own both ... and although I like them both, I prefer DSS.

Here's why ...

• Cost ... both make great gear, DSS is considerably less expensive.
• Customer service ... Tobin will not only work with you to make sure you get a system that's right for your needs, but there are only a handful of companies out there who will put as much effort as he will into making sure you are satisfied with the end result.
• Performance ... DSS offers useful features on their backplate that no one else does ... such as the elastomer slots to reduce harness wear and the bolt-on plate weights that distribute additional weight right where it's most needed. Their wings are more streamlined and less bulky than the comparable Halcyon wings ... making them easier to pack for trips.
• Convenience ... DSS wings don't require a single-tank adapter, and are easier to disassemble for cleaning and storage.
• Reliability ... I had to replace those stoopid stainless steel inflators on all four of the Halcyon wings I purchased ... or take them apart and clean the rust off them after every few dives. All I've ever had to do to the four DSS wings I've owned (and still own) is dive them.

I like Halcyon gear ... but I love DSS gear ... and when you pay as much money for gear as I do, love is important ...

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

 

[hudson]

And why is this? I have a single piece harness myself, but just curious

I'm diving a kind of adjustable harness now out of necessity (it's integrated into the transpac system) and I really hate all the plastic and attachment points on it (the profit harness is similar in feel) They are not completely out of the way like the single-piece/hog harness.

But yeah, the adjustable is easier to remove. This is a non-issue on the surface if you are flexible enough, but it could be bonus when doffing underwater for solo divers.

 

[amascuba]

But yeah, the adjustable is easier to remove. This is a non-issue on the surface if you are flexible enough, but it could be bonus when doffing underwater for solo divers.

Single piece harnesses are easy cheesy to remove underwater. All you do is undo the waist buckle, make sure the crotch strap is free from the waist harness, and pull it over the head. I grab the top of the wing and pull.

To put it back on you place the bcd infront of you with the valve facing your torso, make sure hoses and straps are out of the way, place the arms in the shoulder loops with your hands on the bottom of the tank curve towards the neck, throw the tank over your head, and let it slide on your back.

 

[hudson]

Well, right, but it could be more of a hassle when you are entangled, no? With the adjustable you unclip both arms, done.

 

[RJP]

Well, right, but it could be more of a hassle when you are entangled, no? With the adjustable you unclip both arms, done.

Sure, but in which are you more likely to become entangled in the first place?

 

[TSandM]

Another vote for DSS. The care that Tobin puts into making sure you get the rig that will work for YOU is incomparable. And the price to value ratio is better than Halcyon. I own two DSS wings, and really like both of them, and my husband has a third type and loves his as well.

 

[diver 85]

Halcyon!!!

Do some dives trying both setups. One will stand out for you I'm sure.

How is this accomplished without buying both??...

I'm thinking most people pick one & go with it.....humans are very adaptable creatures...