Choosing a backplate

[j2s]

There are differences, some subtle, some obvious...It comes down to how particular you are and what environment you plan on using it in...Look at DSS's web site, then look at some of the others, like Golem....If you can, try other diver's plates, including different harness set-ups....When you've come to a decision look at the SB classifieds...People are always selling plates....They are pretty indestructible.....Also take into consideration your wing selection....Most wings/plates are compatible, but not all.......

 

[lowviz]

There are differences, some subtle, some obvious...It comes down to how particular you are and what environment you plan on using it in...Look at DSS's web site, then look at some of the others, like Golem....If you can, try other diver's plates, including different harness set-ups....When you've come to a decision look at the SB classifieds...People are always selling plates....They are pretty indestructible.....Also take into consideration your wing selection....Most wings/plates are compatible, but not all.......

Tanks and wings, big difference. Plates, not so much. -as long as the holes/slots in the plates are where they need to be...

 

[buddhasummer]

One quick correction to the information above. The Halcyon standard size plate does have cam band slots.

Thank you for the correction, in Australia at a Halcyon dealers they had both Ali and SS plates and only the Ali had cam slots, I guess they must have old stock? also on your website the SS plate pictured has no slots.

 

[Rick Murchison]

I personally like the ones Fred Tagge makes. (FredT on Scubaboard). He's still making them last time I checked, and will basically make you one just the way you want it.
The "FredT Heavy" is a quarter inch steel that's just lovely for getting the weight off your belt with small tanks.
Rick

 

[lowviz]

OMG, Thanks. been looking to get a heavy "North Florida Standard" BP with a couple of holes for an "Edd style" SM travel cylinder on one side and a buddy/deco bottle on the other. Don't want or need one of the typical "Valentine's Day Massacre" style "shot full of holes" BP's that are all too common. -KISS.

 

[buddhasummer]

OMG, Thanks. been looking to get a heavy "North Florida Standard" BP with a couple of holes for an "Edd style" SM travel cylinder on one side and a buddy/deco bottle on the other. Don't want or need one of the typical "Valentine's Day Massacre" style "shot full of holes" BP's that are all too common. -KISS.

AGIR make a 6mm 5.1kg plate, doesn't look like a "valentine's day massacre" but will cost you a kidney and a lung.

 

[Pullmyfinger]

+1 on Fred T plates, if buying just a plate to use with whatever wing.

If buying a complete rig, look no further than DSS. They are hard to beat for a complete system.

-Mitch

 

[Bob DBF]

I purchaced a Hammerhead Scuba backplate, single tank sta ( which I don't need with my Oxychec wing), and harness with hardware (DIY) for about $150 and could have been $20 less w/o the Sta. I've been diving it for a couple of years now, with singles and doubles and like it.

I also dive a Freedom Plate when I don't need to dive with the gear I attach to the Hammerhead. It all depends on what you want. Look around a lot and keep asking, if you are lucky you might find someone who will let you test drive.



Bob
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I may be old, but I’m not dead yet.

 

[plavin]

Thanks for all of your responses.

I'm really leaning towards the DSS option, it seems to be the most cost effective solution.

A couple questions for those of you diving DSS plates:

1) It sounds like the DSS plate is "flatter" than some others, do you find that there is enough room to store a lift bag or SMB under the plate?
2) What pockets fit the DSS plate's bolt pattern? IE The Halcyon Storage Pack? What other ways do you carry your lift bag/SMB?

Thanks!

 

[USCScubaboy]

Get a pocket.