Why are jacket style BCD's the most common??

[Nemrod]

So that was all tongue in cheek and you do travel with a backplate.

I met you at Portage Quarry in 2006 and I think you were diving "vintage" gear. I am petite but now much older and I have no problem lugging my scuba gear including bp, plus my suitcase.

Hey, of course. Yes, I do use a backplate and wing (if I use a BC). And yes, I carry my own equipment (mostly ) and usually my wife's as well. I use either the lightweight Oxy travel plate which is one of the reinforced fabric plates or I use the VDH mini-plate. I am weight integrated usually.

I have on occasion been tempted to purchase an AL Zuma or now I am slightly smitten with the AL Outlaw in a 12 pounds lift configuration. It is not likely I will ever get to Portage again, it was fun but a long drive for freshwater. A great bunch there and an interesting shop too.

I think it is the "adjustability" factor in large part of the jacket style BC that results in their ubiquitous use in rental and training. They can adjust something that does not fit to where it almost fits and kinda works. And away you go!

James