BCD Reccomendations

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T

Tubbles

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Hi, I'm a UK based diver, but I do all of my diving abroad. I am heading to University, so will start doing UK diving (and will get qualified with BSAC), but have been invited to do a dive internship, taking me up to divemaster, in Majorca (Spain), so need to get some gear. I have not been able to get ANY equipment until now, so am in a buying frenzy, but want it to be good and last a few years.

I personally like jacket style BCDs, but I dont know how they hold up in UK waters, so advice on that other than "jackets suck, wings rule" will be appreciated.
It needs to be pretty resilient, have some space, and all the other obvious things.
I dont like integrated weights, as I mainly boat dive, and I find them annoying to lift out in rough water. If integrated is the way to go, I have heard that Mares' MRS system can break a fair bit, is that true?

Im new at this, so any other info you need, please ask.
 
I personally like weight integrated BCD when I used them. Often I would just hand my weights up to the person on board before they grabbed my kit. I am not sure how popular Zeagle is in the UK but I really liked the Ranger that I had. Heavy duty enough and comfy. A bit bulky for traveling though.
 
I second Zeagle BCD's. You will soon get a huge rush of BP/W posts and that is another option.

The most important thing is for you to dive the gear before you decied. I tried 5 or 6 different BCD's and even after buying I had to exchange it because it just didnt sit right.
 
Hi Tubbles,

you're living in the UK, so I would like to hint you to the british A. P. Valves BCs. The "Buddy" BCs (especially the "Commando") are very solid, adjustable and reliable. Another advantage: You will find several UK-Divers who can provide you with more information.
 
The Buddy Commando comes with an option for some form of pony bottle. Is this for a specific/multiple use, and do you guys recommend getting it? (UK use)
Are there any problems with weight belt systems when diving in the UK, so would it be better getting integrated weights?
 
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