I'm in the market for a BCD. I've rented bc jackets in the past, although I wore a bp/w rig for my cert dives many moons ago. Anyhoo ... I like what I have read about bp/w rigs. What brands & models should I keep in mind when I begin shopping?
BP/W Rigs for Recreational Diver
- Thread starter hydroknot
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Having tried a few brands, I'd encourage you to consider the Deep Sea Supply BP/W, especially if your primary use will be a single.
The clever way the wing integrates with the plate, holding the cylinder without an extra Single Tank Adapter, makes it worth it right there.
Also, the cylinder is way closer to your back, so, you're more stable; and with the little rubber tensioning blocks, I've never had a cylinder slip, even when I'm lazy and don't really reef on the cam bands.
....they're works of art, too, beautifully manufactured.
All the best, James
The clever way the wing integrates with the plate, holding the cylinder without an extra Single Tank Adapter, makes it worth it right there.
Also, the cylinder is way closer to your back, so, you're more stable; and with the little rubber tensioning blocks, I've never had a cylinder slip, even when I'm lazy and don't really reef on the cam bands.
....they're works of art, too, beautifully manufactured.
All the best, James
fisheater
Contributor
Another great feature, exclusive to DSS, is Tobin's weight plate system. You can attach steel plates to the backplate to get more weight off of your belt and up along your lungs.
a22shady
Contributor
Halcyon Eclipse, it a great BP/W
kanonfodr
Contributor
While different bp/w manufacturers and even individual plates/wings have merits (DSS systems are not only well priced, but have many innovative features that other systems don't have), it could easily be said that they all work, one way or another. Different plates will fit different body types better, be more suitable for certain configurations than others, etc. If you have a chance try many different models.
Also, don't be afraid to mix and match manufacturers. I'm building an AL rig that uses a Halcyon backplate, but for my singles wing I chose an Oxycheq wing because they are good quality, the price was very good, and it doesn't require a single tank adapter. It's also my doubles rig as my DSS backplate is a bit flatter than the H plate and causes the wingnuts from the bands to dig into my back. Food for thought, I hope.
So try some different setups, shop around for deals, or flip a coin. However you choose the system for you is entirely at your discretion and I'm not certain than any individual system is miles and miles above any other system so I would presume that you will be happy with any quality rig.
Peace,
Greg
Also, don't be afraid to mix and match manufacturers. I'm building an AL rig that uses a Halcyon backplate, but for my singles wing I chose an Oxycheq wing because they are good quality, the price was very good, and it doesn't require a single tank adapter. It's also my doubles rig as my DSS backplate is a bit flatter than the H plate and causes the wingnuts from the bands to dig into my back. Food for thought, I hope.
So try some different setups, shop around for deals, or flip a coin. However you choose the system for you is entirely at your discretion and I'm not certain than any individual system is miles and miles above any other system so I would presume that you will be happy with any quality rig.
Peace,
Greg
My favorite wing is the Oxycheq brand. Everything else is just a backplate and harness. I prefer the simple DIR setup, but whatever works best for you will do.
Sas
Contributor
I've tried the following setups: Zeagle, OMS, Halcyon, DSS, and Hollis. I have OMS x 2 BP/W myself (45lb single bladder wing, 32lb wing, AL + SS plates with homemade hog harnesses) but the best setup I tried was DSS and if I got another BP/W I'd probably get that setup. I like that I can have different size plates as well as weight to stick on to them.
Friends have the Oxycheq and HOG wings as well and have been happy with them. And they look good too.
To be honest I have not found a big difference between overall comfort other than when I tried a Comfort Harness (hated it), but the DSS has the ability to have a heavier plate and also customer service has a very high reputation.
Friends have the Oxycheq and HOG wings as well and have been happy with them. And they look good too.
To be honest I have not found a big difference between overall comfort other than when I tried a Comfort Harness (hated it), but the DSS has the ability to have a heavier plate and also customer service has a very high reputation.
ajduplessis
Contributor
OP
How does a bp/w rig compare to a back floatation jacket (bfj) such as the Scubapro Hawk series in terms of performance, operation, comfort, transportability in luggage, cost, etc?
Sas
Contributor
I had a Scubapro Ladyhawk and I found no comparison. The BP/W is much more stable holding my tank, much more adjustable, cheaper (Ladyhawk is $1100 locally, BP/W you can get as cheap as $270), and in general I just found it more comfortable. To transport I found the BP/W better as I can take the wing off the plate for easier packing. YMMV though.
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