Between an SQ Black Diamond and Zeagle Ranger

[Yerba Mate]

I know this sort of thread has been posted before (trust me I went through almost all of the posts on this topic), but I am looking for a bit more current advice and opinions regarding these 2 BCD's.

I can get either of them for approximately the same price (BD at LDS and Ranger at LP), Which is $800 or so Canadian. I know they are both good BC's in general and since I've never owned a BC I need to get your advice.

Assume for this thread, that BP/W is not an option (It is don't worry, but I will like to compare only these 2 BCD's right now).
Also I will try to dive them myself, but here I'm looking for your opinions.

Also, if anyone has any comments about whether the Ranger LTD is worth the extra cost or not let me know.

Thanks,
Yerba Mate

 

[saying]

Yerba Mate once bubbled...

Also, if anyone has any comments about whether the Ranger LTD is worth the extra cost or not let me know.

I can't comment on the Sea Quest other than to so I decided against it after the same sort of research I'm sure you're doing.

I can tell you between the Ranger and the Ranger LTD though...

I bought the LTD, but I probably wouldn't again. I just took the trim pockets off because even 1 lbs in each makes me roll over like a helpless beetle and even if they were useful pockets... they can only sit on the lower tank band, when you would want your trim pockets on the upper band.

The little zipper built into the wing is useless... unless you are a 12 year old Chinese circus contortionist there is no way you are going to be able to reach anything you've zipped there.

The lumbar pad is nice. I could easily do without it, but it's nice.

I wouldn't use the rip-cord system without the included weight bags but they're, what, $20? Or, you could just make some.

The placement of the extra D rings, specifically the ones in the back, are awesome, but you can just as easily make friends with someone handy with a needle and thread. Or, I hear Zeagle will put D rings pretty much anywhere you like, for a price, of course.

Anyway, all things being equal, the LTD isn't worth it but the Ranger rules. Comfort upon comfort upon comfort.

 

[zslnk]

As a new diver (Canadian also!) I went to Northern Tech Diver in Kingston ON and got a Halcyon Pioneer 36lber. Very happy with it, I was looking at the Zeagles at first then got the Halcyon. Just a suggestion... Paid about 800CAD for it.
Craig.

 

[Yerba Mate]

Thanks for the input so far, if anyone else has any suggestions, opinions or especially experiences, I'd love to hear them.

 

[SeaJay]

I much prefer the SQ Black Diamond.

I like it better for it's internal hard structure; it simply did a better job at keeping my tank exactly where it was supposed to be. I also found that the Black Diamond fit great; especially impressive given that it's got a sort of hard "shell."

I also much preferred the integrated weight system... Even though the Balance has the new-n-improved "latch" system, the plain velcro wasn't bad either. The Zeagle ripcord system, IMHO, is a true piece of garbage. It was simultaneously difficult to ditch and insecure as well. No thanks.

Of course, other peoples' opinions are going to differ.

The Black Diamond can handle doubles, by the way... Can the Ranger? I don't remember. That may be a selling point right there.

Of course, you KNOW I'm going to point out that a bp/wing is more streamlined, probably cheaper, a whole lot more durable and a whole lot more flexible... Not to mention the sheer performance trim and buoyancy... I just can't see any more why someone would spend $600 or more on a BC which only does a good job at providing trim and buoyancy and keeping the tank properly situated, but won't spend $500 on something that does a great job... A more durable bp/wing (which can grow with you better if you decide to dive doubles) that in the meantime is simpler and more streamlined; not to mention does a better job at keeping trim and buoyancy under control.

To me, it's like trying to figure out why someone would purchase a $50,000 Hyundai when they can have a brand new Mercedes for $40,000.

But hey, I guess if you really wanted a Hyundai...

I'd choose the Black Diamond if it was between these two.

 

[iflyprops]

The Ripcord system is NOT a piece of garbage!! I just bought a Zeagle Escape and I thought the same thing at first. Just examine how it works, it is so simple! Then after you have figured it out pull the cord a couple of times out of the water and restring it, the first time it took me about seven minutes to do it, now I can restring it in under five, after practicing only two more times! Its simple, and it's quick....

Still haven't figured out what everyone is complaining about!
Adam

 

[Bob]

Do you plan to ever dive doubles? If so, go with the BP/Wing. For single tank diving I like the Ranger. The LTD isn't worth the extra money. Buy the Ranger. Be sure and buy the right size, adjust it properly and you'll have no issues with tank movement. Consider buying a crotch strap to go with it. I spend alot of time upside down poking around under ledges so the crotch strap helps keep everything in place. Spend some time adjusting your trim (weight placement) and your bouyancy and trim will be as good or better than any one elses. I have over 300 dives on my Ranger and no problems to date. The only thing I don't like about the Ranger is that it does trap air in the Bladder. You need to be aware of this. I haven't experienced any problems with the weight system as of this writing. :tree: Bob