Arnaud
Contributor
5615Mike, you're comparing two different plates. A regular 6# B/P is made of 11 gauge SST, i.e. $84-99 (unfinished/finished). $176 is a heavy B/P which is a lot more stainless steel...
BC advice: intermediate diver looking for versatility
- Thread starter JMG
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OK, so I've got a few choices that I'm going to try to test dive (crossing my fingers that they're available at my LDS).
However, I'm still not sure whether I or not I should consider the backplate and harness system. The modularity is appealing - it would let me upgrade as I needed to. My question is, does anyone know of any good resources for finding out more information about switching over? Someone suggested FredT earlier in the thread, and I've been in touch with him, but I admit to being a little bit ignorant as to what parts I need. Of course, I'm going to ask about this option at my LDS, but I always like to get information independent of someone trying to sell me something.
However, I'm still not sure whether I or not I should consider the backplate and harness system. The modularity is appealing - it would let me upgrade as I needed to. My question is, does anyone know of any good resources for finding out more information about switching over? Someone suggested FredT earlier in the thread, and I've been in touch with him, but I admit to being a little bit ignorant as to what parts I need. Of course, I'm going to ask about this option at my LDS, but I always like to get information independent of someone trying to sell me something.
DFC5343
Guest
Black Diamond hands down. Got some serious bugs on my first diving it. Takes some water time to get the weights right but G2G.
Arnaud
Contributor
JMG:
There are so many threads on switching to a B/P on the board. Have you done a search?
You can also ask questions here, on this thread.
FredT
Guest
simbrooks:
The risk here is the same as anywhere else. You risk freight and packing charges, plus if you get a harness kit you risk the price of 6 yards of webbing. I generally can't take webbing you've cut back, but you can return all the hardware. 6 yards of webbing is $9.
BTW So far in 3 years I've had one returned for exchange as the customer ordered the wrong size, none have been returned for product quality issues.
FT
DivesWithTurtles
Contributor
Opinions vary. No doubt about it. I have no interest in swaying anyone's opinion. But what I've noticed about BC opinions:
1. Some people use and like jackets.
2. Some people use and like Back Inflation BCs (Zeagle and the like).
3. Some people use and like BP/Wings.
4. Nearly everyone who is using BP/Wings have previously used one or both of the other two types.
5. Nobody (that I've noticed) that has used a BP/Wings go back to the other types.
I could be wrong...
1. Some people use and like jackets.
2. Some people use and like Back Inflation BCs (Zeagle and the like).
3. Some people use and like BP/Wings.
4. Nearly everyone who is using BP/Wings have previously used one or both of the other two types.
5. Nobody (that I've noticed) that has used a BP/Wings go back to the other types.
I could be wrong...
JMG,
I did VERY well with FredT's gear. He'll get you where you want to be. I recently dove my rig in Cayman and had it "tuned" within 3 or 4 dives. I paired it up with Oxycheq's 45# wing from Chris at COVCI. I ordered a very nice custom P-Weight from Fred also so when I dive in my 7mm wetsuit in the spring I've got more weight to offset the extra neoprene. I can go to doubles, a dry suit, whatever. TOTALLY modular. FredT was extremely helpfull in getting all my weight calculations worked out. Can't put a price on service like that! And the quality of his backplates, all his gear, is hard to beat! 316L stainless steel, I could be wrong but most manufacturers out there don't use that quality of stainless. 316L is highly resistant to chlorides (seawater). PM me with any questions if you want.
I did VERY well with FredT's gear. He'll get you where you want to be. I recently dove my rig in Cayman and had it "tuned" within 3 or 4 dives. I paired it up with Oxycheq's 45# wing from Chris at COVCI. I ordered a very nice custom P-Weight from Fred also so when I dive in my 7mm wetsuit in the spring I've got more weight to offset the extra neoprene. I can go to doubles, a dry suit, whatever. TOTALLY modular. FredT was extremely helpfull in getting all my weight calculations worked out. Can't put a price on service like that! And the quality of his backplates, all his gear, is hard to beat! 316L stainless steel, I could be wrong but most manufacturers out there don't use that quality of stainless. 316L is highly resistant to chlorides (seawater). PM me with any questions if you want.
mwilding
Contributor
I know one or two that have gone from BP/W to TPII's, but they are the exception. Fortunately for me, it resulted in me getting a huge deal on my rig...DivesWithTurtle:
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mwilding:I know one or two that have gone from BP/W to TPII's, but they are the exception. Fortunately for me, it resulted in me getting a huge deal on my rig...
I use a TransPlate BP/W for diving and a TransPacII for instructional work in the pool. Both are very nice rigs.
... Bob (Grateful Diver)
I still have to get in the water and try a BP/Wings set-up before i set myself on that front. I understand the risks involved, but whether its FredT or another guy thru an online service, its hard to try it out/try it on if you cant see it in front of you.
I had to sit out for about 20mins last night with an LDS owner looking thru catalogues to see what components i would need for a BP/Wings system - he doesnt sell a lot of them - like most places that deal for the recreational FL diver/visitor.
Sounds like you have a good price ($89 for 6# BP) and business (1 return) on that Fred! Maybe one day i will also ask you about it.
I had to sit out for about 20mins last night with an LDS owner looking thru catalogues to see what components i would need for a BP/Wings system - he doesnt sell a lot of them - like most places that deal for the recreational FL diver/visitor.
Sounds like you have a good price ($89 for 6# BP) and business (1 return) on that Fred! Maybe one day i will also ask you about it.
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