may be to explore use of a different configuration.
I assume from your post that you are at a stage where you are still renting your equipment, e.g. your concern regarding renting shot-filled weights. Ergo you may not yet have purchased a great deal of your equipment.
One way for divers to either reduce the weight of weightbelts or eliminate them entirely is to use a backplate and wings configuration. Backplates may be purchased in increments of 6lbs, 9lbs, 12lbs, or even 15lbs (from FredT - on this board). Still more flexibility comes with the use of trim weights or channel weights (also called 'P-weights'). These may be poured in increments of 4, 6, 8, or 10 lbs, and they fit into the inside groove of the backplate. Another option is the use of weighted Single Tank Adaptors (STAs), which can add 6 more pounds to, for example, a 6lb plate for a total of 12lbs, or a 9lb plate for a total of 15lbs, etc. STAs may also be purchased with no extra weight, in which case they add approximately 1.5 lbs depending on the manufacturer.
As you can see, between the total weights of the backplate, the trim weight (if any), and the STA, one can customize the rig to nearly any weight requirement desired.
The backplate configuration places the majority of your ballast flat against your back. The wing functions as your bouyancy compensator. The combination is obviously no less heavy than using a weightbelt, but the placement of the weight against the back is often more comfortable for many who prefer this system. If you choose to wear a belt this system can significantly reduce the amount of weight that will ride on your hips (or it can eliminate the belt entirely).
This is similar to using a BC with integrated weights. When your BC is on, so are your weights. You remove your weights at the same time as you remove your BC. The same principle applies to a backplate and wing configuration, except that - if you choose to eliminate the weightbelt entirely - you cannot "ditch" your weights underwater. While this is a separate topic, suffice to say that there are very few if any situations where the correct response would be to ditch weights underwater - as doing so generally precludes any safety stops or other control over ones ascent. You have a buddy. You can ditch your rig on the surface the same as you would any other.
Another supplier of all these items is Scott Koplin, also on this board. His stuff is top notch as well. PM FredT or Scott (Oxycheq) for more details if you are interested. I use Fred's backplates and P-weights and have been very satisfied. He offers high quality workmanship and competitive prices. Scott offers the same.
Best of luck to you. Regards,
Doc
