BC Recommendation: Scubapro Classic Plus, Knighthawk, or other?

[tdodson]

I have dove with a Dacor bladderless vest style for 20 years. Recently, my air inflator started to leak air. After unsuccessfully attempting to get it serviced, it continues to leak. So I am considering a new BC purchase.

I would consider myself an advanced diver, dive cold water and warm, certified in '87, very diligent with maintaining my equipment, and am looking for a top of the line all-round solid BC.

I do use the quick-release clips on occasion, but only when taking off the BC on a dive boat. Not an absolute necessity.

Can anyone recommend whether to go with the Scubapro Knighthawk, the Classic Plus, or other?

Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

 

[diversteve]

I went into my LDS a few years ago certain I wanted a Knighthawk. I walked out with a Zeagle Ranger LTD - it just fit me better. It's been bulletproof ever since except for the inflator sticking once - probably my fault as I'm not diligent about cleaning it post-trip. They also have the BX inflator option, it allows you to screw a garden hose onto it to rinse the bladder.

 

[Walter]

Can anyone recommend whether to go with the Scubapro Knighthawk, the Classic Plus, or other?

Scubapro makes a fine BC, but I wouldn't recommend either of those, they have too much padding. I'd buy the Scubapro Classic Sport. In my opinion, it's a better BC and you'll find it's less expensive than the two you are considering.

 

[tcpip95]

I just purchased a Scubapro Glide Pro. I looked at the two different models, and based on 1) recommendation from my LDS and 2) test dives, I went with the Glide Pro. Reasoning was because of my size (5'11", 240 lbs) my LDS thought that I would be better served with the full vest vs. the back inflation - he felt that the use of the fully weighted integrated pocket weights in the Knighthawk would tend to pull me even more face-forward in the water.

I absolutely love the Glide Pro. I had tried a few other models, but am extremely happy with the Glide Pro. BTW, the price for both would have been the same so price wasn't an issue.

Another BC that I looked at was the Seaquest Black Diamond, but again because it was back-inflated vs. full jacket I opted for the Glide Pro.

Good luck

 

[poe26bcfd]

One other you may want to consider is the Oceanic Excursion. It is a back fill tech style BC. I was debating between that one and the Oceanic Probe LX. I chose the LX due to liking the jacket style side inflate better than the back inflate.

 

[it_mike]

Ooh! Ooh! I get to be first!!!

A Backplate!

It's highly adaptable, and will just last. I run an OxyCheq myself, but DSS looks good too!

 

[Damselfish]

You're going to find people who love and hate pretty much every BC on the market, and their reasons may or may not apply to you. What style do you want? - the 2 you mention are entirely different styles. What features? What fits you?

 

[tdodson]

Thanks to all for your comments.

 

[JDMerk]

I'll second the Zeagle Ranger suggestion. I own a Knighthawk now and as much as I like it the Ranger is just a better product...im sure you wont be disappointed with either though.

 

[tdodson]

Ok. After checking out about 6 dive stores, and doing plenty of reading, I decided on the Zeagle Ranger BCD. My decision was based on how the BC can easily modified for twin tanks, it's very rugged/heavy duty, everything on it can be removed and replaced if necessary, all the SS D rings and their location, and the fit. I also liked the length of the inflator hose, and the button was in a natural location that I am familiar with. It may take some getting used to rear-inflation, but it sounds like if you are properly weighted and do not over-inflate, it's a non-issue.
Thanks again for all the feedback!!!