Thought I'd post my post-dive trip feedback on my new DSS Backplate and wing setup.
I'm a relatively newbie diver (60 dives total) and up until our recent Bonaire trip, I rented BCDs. After reading up on BP/W setups, I decided I wanted to go that way instead of a traditional BCD. The main reason for me was simplicity and compactness for travel.
I ended up talking with Tobin from Deep Sea Supply and based on my description of my diving (carribean warm water diving, AL80s, etc.), he recommended the SS backplate and LCD20 wing.
The setup arrived shortly after I ordered it, and I took about 30 minutes putting it together and making adjustments. We did a pool dive locally before leaving for Bonaire, and everything seemed straightforward.
After 21 dives in Bonaire, here's what I think:
- Tobin was spot on - I normally use 4 to 6 lbs of lead with a BCD and he said I should be fine with just the SS backplate for ballast. He was right. With an empty tank, I could still descend without additional weight!
- The LCD20 seemed so small, I was afraid it wouldn't be enough lift. No issues there either - If I inflated fully, I'd be fairly high in the water. I guess if I were expecting to be out on the water overnight waiting for rescue, I might go with the LCD30, but I was comfortably "lifted" with the LCD 20 - especially if you lean back a bit.
- The setup does pack quite compact and it's an easy quick setup. I like the double tank strap for extra security.
- The straps are quite durable and somewhat stiff. The only downside I can see is that carrying gear back to the hotel with the BP slung over a shoulder without a shirt on and sunburned shoulders was somewhat painful. This can easily be remedied by either a) sunscreen use or b) wearing a shirt
- I really like how stable everything feels. For rough shore entries, it's good to feel that tank as secure as it is
- As for buoyancy, it really felt like I could orient myself any way I wanted in the water. Taking a picture upside down, finning on my side or upsidedown is no problem.
Here's a pic - and yes, I am aware that I neglected to put my inflator hose through the innertube strap.
I'm a relatively newbie diver (60 dives total) and up until our recent Bonaire trip, I rented BCDs. After reading up on BP/W setups, I decided I wanted to go that way instead of a traditional BCD. The main reason for me was simplicity and compactness for travel.
I ended up talking with Tobin from Deep Sea Supply and based on my description of my diving (carribean warm water diving, AL80s, etc.), he recommended the SS backplate and LCD20 wing.
The setup arrived shortly after I ordered it, and I took about 30 minutes putting it together and making adjustments. We did a pool dive locally before leaving for Bonaire, and everything seemed straightforward.
After 21 dives in Bonaire, here's what I think:
- Tobin was spot on - I normally use 4 to 6 lbs of lead with a BCD and he said I should be fine with just the SS backplate for ballast. He was right. With an empty tank, I could still descend without additional weight!
- The LCD20 seemed so small, I was afraid it wouldn't be enough lift. No issues there either - If I inflated fully, I'd be fairly high in the water. I guess if I were expecting to be out on the water overnight waiting for rescue, I might go with the LCD30, but I was comfortably "lifted" with the LCD 20 - especially if you lean back a bit.
- The setup does pack quite compact and it's an easy quick setup. I like the double tank strap for extra security.
- The straps are quite durable and somewhat stiff. The only downside I can see is that carrying gear back to the hotel with the BP slung over a shoulder without a shirt on and sunburned shoulders was somewhat painful. This can easily be remedied by either a) sunscreen use or b) wearing a shirt
- I really like how stable everything feels. For rough shore entries, it's good to feel that tank as secure as it is
- As for buoyancy, it really felt like I could orient myself any way I wanted in the water. Taking a picture upside down, finning on my side or upsidedown is no problem.
Here's a pic - and yes, I am aware that I neglected to put my inflator hose through the innertube strap.
