Big guy Bcd’s

[BFoster541]

I’m 5’10 and 270lbs, I’m looking for a BCD that will work at my current weight, more importantly I lost 60lbs this last year and am working on my next 60 this year, so I’m trying to figure out my options for buying a BCD that will fit now and be able to adjust down as I loose weight. Currently looking at OMS IQ so that I could change out the backpack and keep the wing as I lose weight. I’m interested in getting into technical diving and side mount in the future. Any suggestions?

 

[tbone1004]

call Deep Sea Supply and talk to Tobin who posts on here as @cool_hardware52
His bp/w's are the best on the market and conveniently priced accordingly. You wouldn't need to adjust anything on that rig as you lose weight aside from trimming off some excess webbing as it gets too long.

The OMS IQ is not a rig I would recommend and I say that as someone who dives doubles and sidemount on a regular basis. Far better to get a singles rig now, and when you make the choice of doubles or sidemount, choose a wing and/or rig most appropriate to that type of diving

 

[DevonDiver]

One size fits all... infinitely adjustable harness concept. Perfect for big guys.

Get a regular metal backplate.. not a ridiculous soft/comfort contraption. Adjust down the webbing as you lose weight.

If/when you progress to sidemount, get a dedicated rig for that purpose. You can also get minimalist webbing harness types with certain sidemount rigs.. that are equally one-size-fits-all and can be infinitely adjusted. Again, avoid the silly soft/comfort harness and backplate contraptions.

 

[zider]

As a fellow "big guy" I also highly recommend looking at a standard BP/W setup. DSS is one of a few, if not only, manufacturers who offers different sized plates to accommodate each individual. Give Tobin a call and he will set you up with a perfect rig.

 

[decompression]

Did someone mention Tobin at DSS yet? lol. Seriously, great stuff.

 

[VsubT]

...I’m trying to figure out my options for buying a BCD that will fit now and be able to adjust down as I loose weight.

Halcyon Infinity 40 would fit the bill nicely. The adjustable straps are convenient if you’re dropping weight. Good resale value too.

Lance

 

[tbone1004]

Halcyon Infinity 40 would fit the bill nicely. The adjustable straps are convenient if you’re dropping weight. Good resale value too.

Lance

just have to ignore the fact that it costs almost 2x as much as the DSS

 

[Wookie]

No argument with BPW, I am 6'2" 330lbs, and have been happy in mine for years now.

But you asked about jackets. I love my Oceanic Probe. Size XL for me, probably large for you.

 

[wheeledgoat]

well, you got the predictable and overwhelming "use a BP/W!!!" response that is typical of this board. on the other side of the coin, if you're looking for a nice BCD, we've got Zeagle Ranger LTDs and they are very modular and customizable (you can order different sized pieces). Very comfy and nice, for all us non-tech divers who just dive to have fun.

 

[tbone1004]

well, you got the predictable and overwhelming "use a BP/W!!!" response that is typical of this board. on the other side of the coin, if you're looking for a nice BCD, we've got Zeagle Ranger LTDs and they are very modular and customizable (you can order different sized pieces). Very comfy and nice, for all us non-tech divers who just dive to have fun.

270lbs means lots of anticipated lead required, bpw's account for that if you order one in SS
anticipated extensive weight loss means size adjustment, bpw's account for that as well.

Sadly the jackets do not, and the ranger requires purchase of extra parts.

The DSS rig is also half the price of the Ranger LTD.

With all that in mind, what is my motivation to go that route?

Also, please don't spread the rumour that they are for tech divers and while I do happen to be one, most all of my diving is "just to have fun", as is the case for most people