Halcyon Explorer or Evolve?

[mangrovejack]

Hi,

I'm in the process of setting up a doubles rig and was wondering whether the Explorer or the Evolve would be better for me? Both will be in the 40lbs size. Here is the rig that I will be using:

Halcyon Manifold
Faber 12.2L Tanks
Deep Sea Supply Kydex Long Pattern Backplate
Apeks DS4 1st Stages

In my singles rig I find that I'm normally head heavy, so after hearing about the Fabers being top heavy, I decided to get the Kydex plate so I can fit a tail weight to offset the weight from my head.

If using the Evolve wing, would the wing get trapped between the long pattern plate and the tanks (do you think this would be an issue during use?). The explorer wing wouldn't have this problem since its open at the bottom.

I realise that the due to the length of the Fabers and the Evolve that some peope have issues with that. It won't be a problem for me as that is manageable. I also realise the difference between a horseshoe and donut in terms of dumping air, and again that's not an issue for me really.

Thanks.

 

[dbulmer]

I've used an Evolve and an Explorer wing with 12.2 Fabers and apart from the issue you've mentioned I did not notice that much of a difference. If you plan to move to longer cylinders then the Evolve might be the better bet but if you're staying with the Fabers the Explorer is fine and if memory serves me right a bit cheaper too.

Another consideration might be what your buddies have.
I chose the Explorer largely because a) I have Fabers b) My buddies have Fabers and Explorers so interchangeable kit can be handy.

 

[mangrovejack]

Thanks mate. I won't be moving to larger cylinders anytime soon (yeh never say never , but in this case these tanks will last me a quite a while).

You're right about the price difference (around $30 USD), but to be honest, that's definitely not a deciding factor .

The biggest factor for me is whether the long plate will adversely affect the operation of the Evolve, as I am leaning towards that wing at the moment (I have an Eclipse as my singles wing, so quite like the Halcyon donut wings).

 

[dbulmer]

Mangrove,

I have an Eclipse as well mate last dive on an Eclipse was Sunday - next dive on an Explorer is next weekend

30USD - ah ok !

Best thing you can do is give it a go but I doubt if the plate will make that much difference - of course it might alter trim but heh !