Black Diamond Review

[xSandman3]

As my LDS requires me to dive in-line gear that is less than two years old, it was time to get a new BC. My choices were Aqualung or Sherwood, and I get better deals on Aqualung. I wanted to get the Apeks WTX, but the regional sales manager for Aqualung refused to let me buy it at our reduced rate unless I went to a "special training seminar", taught, of course, by him, (Please make check payable to him, etc.), so I ended up replacing my 3 year old Balance with the Black Diamond instead of the WTX.

After the fiasco with Mr. Wonderful at the above-mentioned gear manufacturer, I wanted to hate the Black Diamond a lot. Took it out for three dives yesterday, and am sad to say, it absolutely rocks, both above and below water. Every issue I ever had with my Balance such as the tank moving around, the ridiculously useless pocket, the inability to load in the weight pouches after donning...all are non-existent with the Black Diamond. I have used my share of BCs, but never one so completely right. I thought long and hard for a reason to complain about it, but can't think of a single one, other than the retail price is outrageous. For my cost, though, I am truly surprised at how well it performs.

I, like many of my SB breathren, am a huge fan of BP/Ws. Unfortunately, I am not allowed to use one to teach in (except for the WTX, which I am apparently not qualified to use. The Black Diamond is a nice surprise, and anyone looking for a great back-inflate BC should seriously consider it.

 

[partridge]

I have used a Black Diamond for 4 years. Yes, it is a great BC. The weight pockets are in the right place. I can change my orientation based on the weight placement and I tried everything. The one that suited me best was all weight in the trim pockets. I found that out after I left my pouches at home for a 2 week dive trip. Enough places for everything. The knife mount grommets on the front pouch are a nice touch. I also like how you can adjust the cumberbund. This helps "mis proportioned" divers.

My only complaint is that the thing is huge. If you dont plan to do any travelling, then this shouldnt be a factor.

 

[daniel f aleman]

Beautiful rig - great for teaching.

 

[divemaster_jim]

I've have my black diamond over 10 yrs now, I'd marry it if I could find a judge....
My 1st BC was a SP Seahawk, then swtiched to a Black Diamond because the Seahawk was too bulky.. Great for a small set 80's too.

 

[scubadobadoo]

As my LDS requires me to dive in-line gear that is less than two years old, it was time to get a new BC.

Then they should pay for it.

I'm glad you like the BD. It's a nice BC. I almost bought one myself. Bullet proof!

 

[Vicente]

As my LDS requires me to dive in-line gear that is less than two years old, it was time to get a new BC. .....

I, like many of my SB breathren, am a huge fan of BP/Ws. Unfortunately, I am not allowed to use one to teach in .......

Ya know, this is why I could never be an instructor attached to most dive-shops. First they are requiring you to wear their stuff so you can be a sales-tool. But you have to pay for it?

 

[xSandman3]

Ya know, this is why I could never be an instructor attached to most dive-shops. First they are requiring you to wear their stuff so you can be a sales-tool. But you have to pay for it?

Not only that, but I also have the good fortune of paying an assistant out of my own pocket. I work for a really large chain of sporting goods stores, and never (except maybe when I worked for Disney) have I seen such a world-class bunch of cheapskates.

 

[scubadobadoo]

Not only that, but I also have the good fortune of paying an assistant out of my own pocket. I work for a really large chain of sporting goods stores, and never (except maybe when I worked for Disney) have I seen such a world-class bunch of cheapskates.

The good news is you enjoy your work and you help bring lost souls like myself to scuba heaven! Keep fighting the good fight!