BP/W, why not?

[ScubaFeenD]

So here is the scenario:

I was corresponding with a dive instructor that is local to me. This guy has uber experience and trains technical divers all the way to the most advanced diving I am aware of. So, because I was/am planning on doing training with him in the future I brought up my plans to invest in a BP/W setup. To my shock he recommended AGAINST a BP/W setup for single tank diving!

I dont really understand why he would recommend against it, and I plan to investigate further. Nevertheless, I wanted to hear some members opinions regarding the subject. If you are an instructor or technically inclined diver why would you recommend against BP/W (assuming you would)?

Thanks; I look forward to seeing what everyone has to say about this.

ddd

 

[divesergeant]

I'm not a tech diver, but did just buy a BP/W. One of the things I read about BP/W setups with singles is the need for an adapter that sometimes makes the tank flop around. Since I dive only singles, I got a BP/W that doesn't need an adapter and holds the tank very snug.

Like you, I'm curious about this, too.
DS

 

[ScubaFeenD]

Hmmm i have never heard of the flopping around issue.

I plan on using a STA, which means I will basically bolt the tank to my backplate. It seems to me that if everything fit correctly this shouldn't be a problem.

It will be interesting to hear if anyone has had a "flopping" issue .

 

[mikemill]

I'm not a tech diver, but did just buy a BP/W. One of the things I read about BP/W setups with singles is the need for an adapter that sometimes makes the tank flop around. Since I dive only singles, I got a BP/W that doesn't need an adapter and holds the tank very snug.

Like you, I'm curious about this, too.
DS

The DSS wing does really well without any adapter. Even with my Dive Right wing I didn't have any more flopping then with my Knighthawk.

 

[scubafanatic]

It might be a good idea to probe further and ask your instructor why he takes that position ? I'm not saying he's crazy, but he should be able to reason it out with you so that you see his logic. That being said, a half way decent, back inflate, recreational BC (like my old Zeagle Ranger) with a crotch strap, is perfectly sufficient for non-technical/recreational diving applications....but I'll admit it's really not suitable for 'tech' diving, so I have other harnesses/wings for that stuff, but as I've been diving for some years now, and have been accumulating lots of TOYZ over the years, I can pick what gear I want to use for what application, whereas it appears you need a 'universal' BC, and a BP/wing type unit is certainly more 'universal' than a 'recreational' BC.

 

[N2DeepInAz]

I'm not really sure why he would say that. However, you should ask him why, don't just stop with the initial question you asked of him. Question his answer of, No BP/W for single tank diving.

I dive a BP/W with the Hog 32lb lift wing and it has two metal rods sewn into the center of the wing where the tank would be held against it. I have two tank straps to hold the tank securely in against those rods and I've never had it wobble on me, not once. Just make sure the straps are tight.

As for the STA, from what I've seen/heard those are used either to add weight to the rig or to stablize the tank if your wing doesn't have those stabilizer bars built into it already.

I started diving with a mass produced BCD and moved to the BP/W after about 50 dives. I couldn't believe I waited that long. The BP/W setup to me was much more stable and custom fit to my body than the mass produced BCD.

I'm transitioning into tech diving currently and probably would have liked to start out in the BP/W but didn't know any better at the time, hindsight being what it is.

Good luck in your decision but I really don't think you can go wrong in a BP/W if that's ultimately what you're going to end up diving down the road. Why not start with it instead of transitioning to it down the road, it will lessen your learning curve later.

 

[H2O 70]

If you are an instructor or technically inclined diver why would you recommend against BP/W (assuming you would)?

Because it is too versatile. You can change out wings to mix and match various scenarios and configs.

If you find out his actual reason why, please repost.

 

[Divedoggie]

I personally enjoy switching back to my Ranger (with 35 lb bladder) for single tank recreational diving and tropical vacation travel. A drysuit and undergarments provide a nice cushion for the backplate to sit on, but a with a 3mm suit, the Ranger is more comfy. The integrated weight system is great for the 6 to 8 lbs I dive with. I can dive with no extra weights with the BP and I like to have ditchable weights when diving in a wetsuit.
I can also break down my Ranger and put it in my carry on bag when traveling.

 

[diver 85]

I'm not "an instructor or technically inclined diver" but I would guess it's a money thing going on ie he's not selling what you're asking for( ie to get).......You should ask him 'why not'---tell him a BC is a BC, don't sugarcoat anything either...If he doesn't have--or give you an answer--tell him you'll see him later, after all your near future diving classes are over with(from another instructor)...Always remember, he may not be the sharpest shovel in the shed......

 

[ScubaFeenD]

I am currently awaiting a reply. I will certainly let everyone know as soon as I do.