BCD's for BIG guys

[IndigoBlue]

well, back inflate is definitely a step in the right direction, but finding on to fit may still be an issue, not really sure.
Back inflate are nice underwater, just make sure it's not a huge bladder that will wrap the tank. Doesn't exactly help out your trim or balance. They do tend to pitch you forward on top as all the air is behind you, but you won't feel squeeze as in a jacket style bcd.

I am 6'3" 250lbs or so, and I was wearing a zeagle tech. I have since changed to a bp/wing, which can fit anybody and wouldn't go back. The stability of the system, the simplicity, and the fact once it's setup, it fits perfect was enough for me.

This is the classic "have you considered a backplate and wing?" reply. I have to wonder if JJ is paying royalties to all these people who constantly chime in with "have you considered a backplate and wing?"??

 

[MSilvia]

This is the classic "have you considered a backplate and wing?" reply.

Followed quickly by the classic "I haven't tried them, but I KNOW backplates suck. You're all probably in cahoots with JJ." whining from IndigoBlue. I have to wonder if he's getting paid royalties by SeaQuest...

 

[MSilvia]

Thank you all, once again, for the time and trouble you have taken in helping me with my enquiry.

Good luck Alan. Let us know what you decide... and why.

 

[IndigoBlue]

Followed quickly by the classic "I haven't tried them, but I KNOW backplates suck. You're all probably in cahoots with JJ." whining from IndigoBlue. I have to wonder if he's getting paid royalties by SeaQuest...

I was diving backplates when you were in diapers Silvia.

 

[MSilvia]

My mistake, I was under the impression you hadn't.

It still doesn't change that your ridiculous "JJ's royalties" comment has come up before... as if Halcyon is the only company that makes them, and everyone who uses one is hopped up on DIR coolaid. Personally, I don't think it's constructive, and I'm sick of hearing it. A Hogarthian rig's a good system, and a lot of folks are happy diving with them.

Your broad experience and openmindedness continues to be an inspiration to us all.

Oh, and for what it's worth, until I get my P-valve installed, I'm STILL in diapers.

 

[bcsean]

Well, I'm a fairly new BP/wing user, but thrilled with the setup which is why I'm recommending it. I honestly, hated my zeagle tech, while I had it, and can't believe more people right from OW don't dive this setup. I couldnt care less who's making money off of what. I recommend what I believe in.

I'm currently taking my DM course, and my shop doesn't even carry bp/wing, but that's what I'll be diving, and the shop is well aware of it. I will explain the benefits and drawbacks to the students I work with of each setup. It's their decision.

 

[Jerryg]

As I said earlier. I wish I had purchased my Bp&W setup right from the get go. So much simplicity to it, yet you can make it as complex and YOU desire. As far as integrated jacket BC's go I didn't particularly like the Zeagle release system. When I'm climbing back into a six pack it sure is nice to be able to easily remove my integrated weights. The Zeagle release dumps the weights to the bottom of the ocean. My original BC a Sherwood Avid allows me to quickly dump the weights to the bottom of the ocean, or remove the pockets and hand them to the crew prior to climing back on the boat. I remember when I first bought my BC how intriguing all the pocket seemed to be for carrying things. As I progressed in diving I realized that I really didn't carry anything in the pockets, and if I did happen to carry something, I realized how difficult it was to get things out with air in the bladder squeazing the pockets. I sure do like my BP&W setup

 

[Tao of the Dive]

I'm about the same size as you, and I use a Genesis Recon back inflate XL. SO far, no worries.