DSS or DiveRite BP/W

[crux0724]

Hello,

I've narrowed down my options to DiveRite or DSS for a BP/W.

It appears DiveRite will be cheaper ($319) for their basic package but I'm not allowed to pick BP size or wing lift (25#). DSS is $460 but I'm allowed to go with a smaller lift (17 or 20#) and medium backplate. I'm not even sure if BP size matters that much, I'm 5'9" and 155-165ish. I might be the right size for a "standard" backplate. Is the less lift / drag worth the $140? Also, DSS mentions low profile backplate and I'm not sure how low profile the standard DiveRite is.

Any/all information would be greatly appreciated. If somebody feels I'm making a terrible mistake please let me know. I'm just 1 year into diving and still learning quite a bit!

Thanks

 

[buddhasummer]

Both offer good customer service. Personally I'd give Tobin, DSS, a call and have a chat with him before you make your final decision. DSS gear is very well thought out and very high quality finish. Tobin, the owner of DSS is a member of this board.

 

[Dr. Lecter]

As between those two choices, call Tobin at DSS, You'll regret it a lot less than you'll regret paying the extra $140.

 

[rhwestfall]

I have no experience with the DR plate, but i do own two DSS plates (one SS and one Kydex).The bend geometry in the DSS plate really keeps the tank close to you. DSS also has the rubber grommets in the waist anchor point, that nicely locks the webbing in place (no sliders needed). Lastly, if you desire (and i love mine), DSS has a glide adapter that makes one side of the harness quick to open and close to get in and out of. Some say it is unnecessary, but my body parts (my shoulders in particular) are not what they used to be, and despite surgeries on both, I need the help of the glide harness.

Customer service of either company is excellent.

I do have a number of DR items, and find them to be of value.....

Neither are a bad choice, but I do give a slight nod to DSS (this may be jaded slightly as they are the only manufacturer of a "tall" plate)

 

[JahJahwarrior]

I think the best part is, if you call Tobin, he'll give you an honest assessment of what will work for you. I am pretty certain he won't give you a sales pitch, but you might find that his products sell themselves.

Do you have a chance to see them both in person and try them on?

The DSS gear I've handled has been incredibly high quality. The DR gear I use has survived quite a lot of punishment. I would gladly invest in either set up, but I do think you get a little more finesse in terms of options out of the DSS gear. DR gear is more one size fits all. You can't really go wrong with either one.

 

[SandPhantom]

DSS without a doubt! I have the LCD 20 with a large plate. 6'4" and 280lbs. Can't go wrong and Tobin is awesome to work with.

 

[Sevenrider860]

Add me to the DSS supporters. I have some Dive Rite gear and it is good quality and they have great support and customer service. DSS takes what is great about Dive Rite and takes it up a notch. I have long pattern Backplates (Steel and Kydex), weight plates, Torus 17 and 35 wings, Cam bands, etc, etc. You will not go wrong with Tobin and DSS. Like others have said, give him a call.

 

[SOFDiver]

I own DSS, DiveRite, and Halcyon rigs. The DSS was my first BP&W, and in many ways my favorite although I dive the Halcyon most often as it is set up for work. I think the standard DSS back plate will work for you, I'm 5' 10" and it does for me. I agree with others about calling Tobin, when I bought my DSS gear they would not fill an online order without a telephone conversation to ensure you were ordering the right gear for your needs. No one I know has this approach.

 

[BVickery]

Tobin,

I am in the process of getting the funds for my own BP/W from him. Like Bob I'm on the rather tall side and needed the extra length of a DSS plate (even got a Tech/Cave instructor to tell me as much). The very least from the call with Tobin you learn more about the BP/W. And like JaJa said, Tobin is more interested in getting you equipped the first time instead of making the sale. This may come off as gruff/mean but way I see it, he know's his products better than I do.

 

[fnfalman]

I prefer Dive Rite. The staff is so knowledgeable on so many aspects of diving that its not even funny.

Their customer service is also ridiculously good, especially she dealing with divers who broke their gears through negligence.