BCD selection

[traveler218]

Hi;

I am in the process of purchasing gear and the BCD is the next item on my list. I have found a couple that I like but prices and selection var so much it can get a bit confusing. Most of the time I will be traveling g to dive (as in airplane). I am trying to limit my equipment and weight so I don't get hit with a lot of baggage fees, so I think a travel BCD might be in order.

I like the quality of the zeagle BCD's but don't know much about them. Anybody on the forum know anything about the Zeagle Zeus or Stiletto BCD?

Anybody have any other recommendations?

 

[Capt.Gene]

I know the Zeus is a discontinued model, and the Stiletto is a great choice.
Get one that fits properly without needing to let the cumberbun out and the weight system will set on proper place on your hips.
The Stiletto might well be your first choice if you dove about 100 other BC's. It's hard to fault.

 

[Islandheart]

When you add in the travel requirement it's very hard to beat the Stiletto......

Over all, is it's number one of 100 BCDs.... Not in reality.

Is it comfortable, yes. Is it adjustable, yes. Good features, yes. Good materials, etc... Yes

Do I sell them... No.

The Stiletto LTD would be closer to #1 than the standard, on my top 5 short list.

 

[Superlyte27]

/cough BP&W

 

[JohnN]

/cough BP&W

+1

Lighter, more adaptable, more streamlined and if you ever get the crazy notion of diving in colder water, all you do is increase the wing size

Oh and did I mention it will probably cost you less money?

 

[drrich2]

From what I recall some Zeagle BCDs use a ripcord integrated weight release system. I'm not endorsing or attacking it, just pointing it out as something you may want to look into and see whether you like.

Richard.

 

[dmoore19]

Yes the Stiletto has a rip cord system for releasing weights. The rip cord system is one of the reasons I bought the Stiletto. If I am not mistaken the "wing" can be replaced. I also like the 2 tank bands. It is very adjustable. I will say I have never tried a BPW and the only ones I have ever seen were in the dive shop and at the big sale the LDS has every year.

 

[local76sparky]

I love my Zeagle Tech (I know it is not the stiletto). The customer service is top notch too. I dealt with their people at a local dive show and they spent so much time with me. the others, i was really disappointed in their person-ability. They are great people to deal with and their product is top notch. The zip cord is a different aspect for sure but I dont plan on dumping weights regularly so that wasn't a major concern for me. Anyways, couldn't go wrong with the stiletto. Would like to buy a travel bc myself and would definitely go Zeagle. Just my .02

 

[diversteve]

A Zeus wasn't really a "travel" BC. It may've been the 2nd largest model they sold. I think a regular Ranger is even smaller.

Other Zeagle models to look at for travel - the Express Tech Deluxe, (minimalist soft backplate - can add the ripcord etc.) the Brigade (Ranger jacket with an Escape wing for travel) sold by Scubatoys and the Zeagle Wicked Lite (version of the Ranger that rolls up small) - I'm not certain it isn't discontinued also though. Zeagle Wicked Lite Ranger BCD discounts on sale Zeagle

I also own Zeagle products - have been diving a Ranger for almost a decade. I bought a Stiletto for travel but it was missing some parts (dealer's fault) so I returned it. I was able to stuff it into an airline approved sized carry-on once but it was tight.

My next BC is going to be an Express Tech with the Ripcord. I only travel and dive warm water.

 

[dmoore19]

Like I said, I have the Stiletto. I have seen the Wicked lite for travel. It looks like a great travel BC though my Stiletto doesn't take up that much room.