BC for drysuit diving

[phulme]

I've done my PADI certification and got a few dives under my belt and am starting to build up my own equipment. Having got my regs and drysuit sorted, I'm looking for a first BC and had pretty much settled on the Mares Vector Chrome. I like the fit of the Mares and the operation, having used the Vector Origin at the dive centre I've been using.

I've recently seen good press about the Tigullio T52, and I like the idea of operating it as a wing underwater but as a full vest at the surface, which seems like the best of both worlds. I've now found the Mares Dragonfly Aria at a good price, which is a similar concept but with the Mares inflator I've been used too.

Basically I plan to dive the UK in a drysuit, but also want to use the gear on vacations to warmer water. Does anyne have experience of the Tigullio or the Dragonfly diving with a drysuit, or an opinion in contrast to the "safe" option of the Vector Chrome, please?

 

[Mo2vation]

While I have no experience with those BC's - someone here will and will send over some thoughts soon. Be prepared for a barrage of back plate and wing BP/W recommendations, too.

Hang out - there are a lot of smart people and a lot of excellent divers here - you'll enjoy the place.

Welcome.

Ken

 

[ScoobyPat]

And again I will be the advocate for the Transpac Back-inflated, modular and can be converted into a BP/Wings setup. Just add the plate for $100 and you have basically two BCs.

I have done my certs in a jacket-style Mares VO and switched to the Transpac and there is no comparision. My buoyancy is much better, because of the wings and the harness setup is much more adjustable and comfortable then a jacket BC.

 

[chrisch]

I dive in the UK in a drysuit too..

The jacket-style BCD is not as good as a wing style and many people on this site will tell you that. The Buddy travelwing is very cheap - check out www.kentdiving.com - but do not be tempted by the emergency bottle or air2 that can be bought with this wing.

As to the models you mentioned I have no idea as my view on this style of jacket is to buy a cheap one that is standard - Tusa liberator etc. as this has the best resale value when you outgrow its limitations. If your diving never gets to that point the basic jacket will do everthing you want.

Scubapro inflators are the best I've come across so maybe a Scubapro is the best bet.

Make sure your drysuit inflator hose and BCD hose are the same fitting and this will give you the option to swop them over if you have a problem. Also a standard inflator hose (e.g. the Scubapro) lets you use your regs on a rental jacket on holiday etc.

Most scuba kit is designed to part newcomers with their money rather than give any real benefit to divers... (why else do we have titanium regs??)

Chris

 

[Conor]

I too would recommend the TPII but the travelwing is a bargain to get you started. Jacket styles BC's don't have much of a benefit in my mind

 

[eod]

I have dived with a dry suit and a dragonfly, not the aria though, but if I remember correctly it is only the inflation system that is different. The problem I had with the dragonfly was the overall fit. it didn't really hold the tank still as the vest was sliding around. No matter how I thightened the straps, it still flopped around.

The flopping is compared to a bp+wing I tried later, compared to other stab jackets I have tried, the dragonfly is my favourite.

 

[String]

phulme once bubbled...
Basically I plan to dive the UK in a drysuit, but also want to use the gear on vacations to warmer water. Does anyne have experience of the Tigullio or the Dragonfly diving with a drysuit, or an opinion in contrast to the "safe" option of the Vector Chrome, please?

FWIW i dive in the UK, drysuit with a Vector Chrome jacket.
Its not bad and its nice and light which is handy when taking it abroad.
Only 2 real complaints are pockets are hard to use underwater and the D-rings are all plastic so it "feels" a bit flimsy. That said, it hasnt broken or failed me yet.
I need drysuit pockets though, the christmas tree look is getting annoying now with DSMB, Reel(s), torch(es), buddy line, occasional camera etc.

If you have to use a Vector jacket i dont think it'll be a problem, as i said, im quite happy with mine and its survived a fair amount of abuse. Very adjustable fit as well so can be varied for full thick dry suit to 3mm shorty abroad.