gear question...

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DreaLeigh

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Messages
7
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Location
San Francisco
# of dives
50 - 99
I am shopping to get my own gear, and the shop I visited in Oakland suggested a Scuba Max BCD. I tried it on, it's very comfortable, integrated weights, fits all my preferences, and is $290. I called another shop to get a second opinion and they advised me to stay away from Scuba Max gear and suggested a Zeagle or Aqualung option both closer to $500-$550. Obviously I would love to save money, but I also want a reliable and lasting product. I haven't been able to find any reviews on SM's BCD and was hoping someone here might have some thoughts. Any help would be much appreciated!
 
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Scubamax is pretty much bottom of the line. This is an area where you might get what you pay for. We are a scubamax dealer, but have never sold or even stocked a scubamax bc.

I'd suggest Oceanic's BCD, Nitrox Computer w/Console & Pressure Guage, Regulator & Octopus for $800 complete. Even comes with a lifetime parts guarantee.
 
I have a scuba max BC. This is what the dive shop used for training. I liked it and bought one as soon as I was certified. I've put 80 dives on it so far. Mine does not have integrated weights. I've enjoyed it and have had no problems with it.
 
You may also want to consider a Backplate and Wing instead of a traditional jacket/backinfalte BCD. You mentioned you are looking for something that will last, and a BP/W is infinitely more durable than any other BC style, is capable of growing with you (your waist line) and your style of diving (recreational, technical, cave?). You can pick up an inexpensive brand new one from Dive Right In Scuba, but there are certainly other options out there as well.
 
I'll second the backplate and wing. it will literally last you a life time as you can change the wing based on the kind of diving your doing.

if you still want a traditional BCD then the Zeagel Zena is specifically designed for women and we'll worth the money.

T.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
 
You may also want to consider a Backplate and Wing instead of a traditional jacket/backinfalte BCD. You mentioned you are looking for something that will last, and a BP/W is infinitely more durable than any other BC style, is capable of growing with you (your waist line) and your style of diving (recreational, technical, cave?). You can pick up an inexpensive brand new one from Dive Right In Scuba, but there are certainly other options out there as well.


definitely good advice.
and no console please.
 

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