Another BP/W Recommendation

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Disclaimer... I DO drink the kool-aid...

I switched over from a minimalistic back inflate BCD (Oceanic BioLite) to a hand made freedom plate... it's great... I can't compare it to a standard plate, because I've never dove one, but maybe check them out before you make a purchase. As a side note, I paired my plate up with a VDH wing and I'm also very happy with that.
 
DGX package is great. Wing is super high quality. My wife likes her improved buoyancy control. SS is the better choice for us. Itty bitty trim pockets go on the tank cam band snugged up to the BP.
 
I was planning on the SS plate because I'm normally diving 10-12lbs in my old rig. Not so worried about the 2-3 lb extra over AL for travel weight.
An logical and sensible decision.
Cheers.
 
I'm replacing a 2010 scubapro seahawk with cracked dump valves. The seahawk does not seem repairable as the valves are integral to the bladder

This is quite easily repairable, the fittings simply unscrew

full.jpg
 
I've heard good things about the DGX BPW.

On aluminum vs. stainless. If you plan to travel with your BPW the aluminum wing is probably easier to travel with and deal with weight allowances on checked bags. I dive similar warm water conditions and opted for an aluminum BP. I was surprised how much less weight I needed when switching from a traditional BC. I can dive the aluminum plate with a steel HP 100 or LP 85 and no additional weight needed. You can also easily add trim weight pockets to the cam bands.
 
This is quite easily repairable, the fittings simply unscrew

View attachment 666748

Here is a photo of my BCD:

https://photos.app.goo.gl/FX2YjPwm3Nteduyt7

Basically the threaded flanges are glued into the bladder and the plastic has dry rotted and cracked from the flanges. I did a lot of googling and could not find any repair kits or similar experiences. Also I visited my LDS that services SP and they told me to start over and buy a new BCD. Let me know if you have a different solution.
 
Since the BP/W is modular, start inexpensive and upgrade parts as your future needs dictate. I think DGX is a great way to start. I have an an aluminum plate for warm water.
 
I like stainless plate. Some claim you can't travel with it, BS. I just brought mine to FL in my carry-on with the other essential gear.

I dive halycon and really like it. They are expensive but they also replaced a 12 year old wing as if it was under warranty, they are like 90 to 95 percent made in the US including materials. Just my 2 psi
 

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