DSS BP/W First Time User

[Jasoncassanova]

so it's my first time to use a bp/w, anything you guys would like to share in terms of experience? i've been doing some good read about bp/w that is why i got this rig, just want to know if there are some things that i have to consider or keep in mind while using this type of bcd

 

[cool_hardware52]

so it's my first time to use a bp/w, anything you guys would like to share in terms of experience? i've been doing some good read about bp/w that is why i got this rig, just want to know if there are some things that i have to consider or keep in mind while using this type of bcd

A couple points I go over with new users;

To dump via the rear OPV you must lift the string UP, this lifts the valve up to where the air is in the BC. The motion is sort of like trying to reach your right back pocket with your left hand.

Plan on a few dives to get the harness adjusted, once you have the harness straps the right length move the drings to where you hit them naturally with a clip.

Remember when you tighten the shoulder straps you need to lengthen the crotch strap etc.

Think about how to dump gas from the BC before you get in the water. Many folks accustomed to BC's with quick dumps on the inflator hose will yank and yank and yank, habits are hard to break.

If you experiencing any difficulty donning or doffing try to do it in front of a mirror. It's usually something simple that's hung up on the harness.

Fiddling with gear any making it truly yours is part of the fun, enjoy.

Tobin

 

[Jasoncassanova]

hey tobin!

thanks for the reply, I never thought you'd be the first one, anyway thanks for making the shipment possible all the way here in the Philippines, I appreciate the patience in all of my e-mail inquiries.

 

[ron_cooper]

Tobins equipment is very well thought up and if you get a chance read his previous posts, they will probably help with any other questions you have. I found them useful. Most info here is explain with the reason why something is done that way, then you can make up your own mind if you want to do something a different way or style.
I have been using one of his backplates for a few years now and would hazard a quess you will love the difference. I have mentioned the differences in them as compared to a jacket BC and have a couple more people in our dive club wanting to try my rig out. They both have told me about the jackets riding up at the surface or feeling consticting when inflated. I explained the design and how it was prevented with the BP/W.

 

[kanonfodr]

One more thing with the rear dump:

Near the end of your dive when you are starting to get shallow, it may help to raise your butt a bit to make sure you are dumping, especially if you start feeling a little "too" light. Doing that helps get the dump valve higher than the rest of the wing, in case you have air that's trapped away from the valve.

Peace,
Greg

 

[nelsondejesus]

Good choice!

Did you get the 26 torus wing? My DSS is the third BC ever since being certified. Was never contented with my two previous BP/W. compared with other brands, it is the most streamlined designed.

Although i cannot offer much tip as i've never known the difference in using a jacket type and a BP/W BC and the diving adjustments that needs to be made in switching from one set-up to another (immediately upon enrolling for an open water course and even prior to the start of the pool sessions, I've already bought my own complete set up, including a BP/W BC), the only thing i can offer is - just like any other BP/W, never fully inflate your BC at the end of the dive as the more inflated it is, the more tendency for your BC to push your face downwards.

To accessorize, since your in the Phils, you may want to visit some local dive shops such as Philtech (heard they moved to Quiapo, but has not yet visited their new location), 300 Bar (in Pasong Tamo), or Nautilus (Pasay Road).

 

[Jasoncassanova]

hey nelson, I got the 17 torus wing, thanks for the tips. Well i've had a dozen of experience with jacket types and just like the other believers of bp/w it's the squeeze in the chest that I don't like when you put air in the bladders. also, I feel like i'm this big blob floating in water when my bcd is inflated. I've been to a lot of dive shops, seen other brands of bp/w and i've convinced myself that dss is the way to go

 

[nelsondejesus]

Durability wise, I know a DM who has done at least 800 dives already in his DSS and his wing is still working fine, no leaks so to speak. Considering however that the wing does not have any zipper with which to remove the inner inflating tube and wash whatever salt deposit accumulates inside, I asked him how he maintains his wing, he said he rinses it at least thrice after each day of diving.

for ordinary recreational diving, the 17 torus wing will do and i know someone who is 5'10 in height who uses the same wing. But for advanced/deeper dives where it is necessary to carry a 40 cu stage bottle, M not sure and please check if the 17 will be sufficient.

 

[cool_hardware52]

Durability wise, I know a DM who has done at least 800 dives already in his DSS and his wing is still working fine, no leaks so to speak. Considering however that the wing does not have any zipper with which to remove the inner inflating tube and wash whatever salt deposit accumulates inside, I asked him how he maintains his wing, he said he rinses it at least thrice after each day of diving.

Zippers do nothing to add in rinsing a bladder. You need to get fresh water inside the bladder. Add fresh water via the oral inflate, and blow it out the OPV, repeat as required.

for ordinary recreational diving, the 17 torus wing will do and i know someone who is 5'10 in height who uses the same wing. But for advanced/deeper dives where it is necessary to carry a 40 cu stage bottle, M not sure and please check if the 17 will be sufficient.

The Torus 17 is a single tank wing intended for use with modestly buoyant exposure suits and single cylinders.

Tobin

 

[Rhone Man]

If you are used to using a jacket BC, you may find you have a tendency to keep the shoulder straps too tight, and keep the tank too high. Experiment with looser should straps (tighter crotch strap) and letting the backplate attach a little lower down the tank.

Worked for me, anyway.