Best BC for under $350

[UNCROCKS123]

Title says it all. Please post models and why you think its the best choice. Keep in mind that I am a beginner and am looking for a jacket style/vest BC

Thanks in advance

 

[DiveMaven]

The "best" BC is the one that fits you properly, regardless of price. As a beginner, you should focus on trying on as many different styles and models that you can get your hands on and not rely on anyone else's recommendation of what specifically to buy.

Speaking from experience, I bought into the hype of the "best women's BC" and bought it, only to find after 4 dives that I hated it....sold it on ebay and began doing the search I should have done in the first place.

 

[UNCROCKS123]

The "best" BC is the one that fits you properly, regardless of price. As a beginner, you should focus on trying on as many different styles and models that you can get your hands on and not rely on anyone else's recommendation of what specifically to buy.

Speaking from experience, I bought into the hype of the "best women's BC" and bought it, only to find after 4 dives that I hated it....sold it on ebay and began doing the search I should have done in the first place.

Ok, I see your point. However when I started researching, I felt completely overwhelmed. Would it be possible for you to tell me some brands that have a great reputation for making quality products? I understand that it is all about fit and taste, but I am sure that some brands are better than others.

Thanks for your input.

 

[farsidefan1]

I love my scubapro glide plus. Many here will tell you to only consider a wing type. Whatever. I love the big pockets, integrated weights, secondary air. For me it works. One drawback is weight. I often find myself counting ounces when traveling. If a lot of traveling to obscure locations on secondary airlines is in your future consider a light travel BC. But do make sure you try several different styles. I decided to pay a local dive shop rather than online because I wanted to actually try a bunch of different styles. I bought the one I liked best so for me ... it works.

 

[Divertor]

I would agree with DiveMaven, and I would also add some features you should look for or compare:

weight integrated (you want this), denier rating (1000 denier nylon or higher on better BCD's), trim weighting, D-rings for accessories, padded back pack, number and locations of air dumps.

I would not buy used BCD, Regulator, or gauges. They are too important for safe diving.

Check out Divemastersupply.com they have a Scuba Max BC-5000 for your price.

Their Scuba Max BC is pretty nice for the price.

 

[tk trekers]

Your profile provides no information on you, male / female? What part of the country or what country you live in?

Having just gone through this process, you need to try on a bunch to find the one that fits you the best and feels "right" to you. You will then narrow it down to a couple and can then make a decision. You will have to go to a dive shop to do this if you can, otherwise you're throwing darts and will regret your purchase.

If you want a brand, try one of these:

Seaquest
Mares
Oceanic
Scuba Pro
Aeris
Zeagle
Sherwood
Tusa

That should give you a good start.

 

[UNCROCKS123]

Thanks for all your input. I gather that the best way to go about this is to go to a dive shop and try everything they have. To answer tk trekers questions, I live in Chapel Hill, NC and am going to florida to dive in a week or so.

 

[DiveMaven]

If you're heading to South Florida, find a Diver's Direct store. They have an excellent selection of different styles and brands of BCs that you can try on. Should be a great place to start!