GEAR: Oxycheq vs. Halcyon vs. whoever

[RonzoTheGreat]

Hi,
I'm trying to set-up my doubles ...
I'm pretty much settled on 55-60#lift on the wing but having difficulty with deciding on manufactures.

I like the Halcyon but understand I can get other brands for MUCH less. I definitely want to go with a donut as opposed to horseshoe ... and the oxycheq's lower side looks like it's not a true donut with a consistent flow but actually narrows at the bottom. (Can anyone clarify).

Research has told me durability with either is quite good and practicality is positive as well. Are there any other drawbacks and any other brands that should be in this comparison?

Lastly, I have local access to Halcyon gear and servicing but not a true Oxycheq center (but will service even be an issue)?

Thank you in advance for sharing your experiences. Feel free to name other brands that can be comparable.

 

[MXGratefulDiver]

Deep Sea Supply makes a full-circle wing. I own, and really like, their Torus 49. They also make a 57# donut wing, but it's a different style. Tobin George ... the owner of the company ... is a member of this board ... his screen name is cool_hardware52

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

 

[dboddy]

I have used both the Oxycheq 55# vertex and the Halcyon Eclipse. The build quality between the two seemed equal to me. The Oxycheq held up well in the caves and the donut designed worked very well for me. It does taper towards the bottom, but not enough to restrict airflow. The Halcyon gear is always top notch...but at a hefty price. If you take care of your gear...either brand would serve you well.

Good Luck!

 

[Doc Harry]

I like Halcyon, sort of the "Patagonia" of diving. Expensive but worth it. Never tried Oxycheq personally.

Avoid OMS at all cost.

 

[MXGratefulDiver]

Avoid OMS at all cost.

Anytime you make a statement like that, it helps to explain why.

I don't own any OMS gear ... but I know several divers who do and are happy with it. Not sure they even make a donut-style wing, though ...

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

 

[Nick_W]

I like Halcyon, sort of the "Patagonia" of diving. Expensive but worth it. Never tried Oxycheq personally.

Avoid OMS at all cost.

I agree with NWGratefulDiver on this, you really need to support that statement. I've never heard any complaints at all about OMS. At the same time, I've heard nothing but complaints from guys I dive with who bought Halcyon when they realized they paid significantly more for gear that, yeah its nice, but its not that nice.

Of course I know one guy I could probably glue a Hefty bag in the shape of a wing and paint a blue H on it and he'd tell me its the greatest piece of gear ever.

 

[Mack Diver]

In order to help those of us who are less educated on this particular subject, Why do you want / need a donut-style wing? Extra lift? balanced air flow?

On the OMS side, I've sold a few sets. Overall, the reaction is positive except I have one customer who twice now has developed a leak in the inflater hose, right where it zip-ties onto the wing valve. His dad has the exact same setup with no problems, so something makes me think it is more the user than the equipment.

 

[amascuba]

I have a Halcyon wing coming in the mail... I'll sell you my Oxycheq #50 Vertex 360 wing for CHEAP!

They both make good products. I've always had good dealings with Patrick at Oxycheq. What sized tanks are you going to be using?

Hey Harry, Just curious, Why do you not like OMS?

 

[diver 85]

This one ought to get good before it's over with.....(I'm just going to read the mail for now).....btw, thanks for everyone's opinion and advice so far.........next......

 

[Jasonmh]

I have a Halcyon wing coming in the mail... I'll sell you my Oxycheq #50 Vertex 360 wing for CHEAP!

Waaa??!?! What wing did you order? I know you really liked the oxycheq.