Help for a newbie's first BC purchase???

[Parrothead_Diver]

I would suggest that you go to a local retailer and try on the equipment before you order it on line. This is what I do and it works out great...Just act interested in their product try it on and go home and order it on-line. I have found that it is much cheaper to order via the internet..

This is just down right rude....

At least give the LDS the chance of selling to you. If you find something cheaper on-line then talk to them. Maybe they can work a deal with you. Even if they cannot match the deal, they can usually get close.

I know that I am just whipping a dead horse here... OK, now let the flaming begin.

 

[MyDiveLog]

My LDS sell lots of them -- I use one -- and have never gotten a complaint. Low/no inherent bouyancy, and they recently added a 3rd dump valve on the right shoulder. The back-inflate makes trim in the water easier, but they say it makes you less comfortable on the surface (vs. a jacket BC, which wraps the air bladder around you, so is supposedly more stable on the surface). I've never really felt "pitched forward" on the surface, even with the bladder fully inflated, though. ScubaPro also has the clip lock for the integrated weights, which is really nice ... not sure if the others have incorporated this feature.

I'm not sure, but seem to remember the Zeagle Ranger having the "rip cord" type of weight release. This requires you to thread a thick nylkon cord through a series of loops every time you re-install them, which is a hassle -- especially in a class where you are dumping weights repetitively.

Having said all that, I don't have any personal experience with the backplate & wings combo. I've seen some and they don't seem much different from the Balance, except that tey are modular and don't have the fold-down pocket (which I like).

 

[jagfish]

My LDS sell lots of them -- I use one -- and have never gotten a complaint. Low/no inherent bouyancy, and they recently added a 3rd dump valve on the right shoulder. The back-inflate makes trim in the water easier, but they say it makes you less comfortable on the surface (vs. a jacket BC, which wraps the air bladder around you, so is supposedly more stable on the surface). I've never really felt "pitched forward" on the surface, even with the bladder fully inflated, though. ScubaPro also has the clip lock for the integrated weights, which is really nice ... not sure if the others have incorporated this feature.

I'm not sure, but seem to remember the Zeagle Ranger having the "rip cord" type of weight release. This requires you to thread a thick nylkon cord through a series of loops every time you re-install them, which is a hassle -- especially in a class where you are dumping weights repetitively.

Having said all that, I don't have any personal experience with the backplate & wings combo. I've seen some and they don't seem much different from the Balance, except that tey are modular and don't have the fold-down pocket (which I like).

I know Seaquest makes a Balance BC, does Scuba Pro as well...?

 

[ScottZeagle]

I'm not sure, but seem to remember the Zeagle Ranger having the "rip cord" type of weight release. This requires you to thread a thick nylkon cord through a series of loops every time you re-install them, which is a hassle -- especially in a class where you are dumping weights repetitively.

The ripcord weight release system is no more complicated than putting in new shoelaces. It may take you a couple of minutes the first time you do it, but once you are used to it is pretty quickly done. Dumping weights in class is one thing, but when you are in a real life situation and need to ditch weights, I will put the ripcord system up against any weight integrated system on the market. Just my 2 cents.

I agree that trying the BCs on and pool testing them if possible is the best way to choose your BC. Best of luck with whatever brand you choose! As long as you are getting out and actively diving, it doesn't really matter what name is on your gear!!

Scott

 

[MXGratefulDiver]

Before switching to a Bp/Wing setup. I used a Scubapro Superhawk NT.

Same here ... after making the switch to BP/wing, I put my old Superhawk in the rental stock at the LDS I was DM'ing at the time ... and as far as I know it's still being used.

I really liked the BCD ... but as others have stated, the one that's right for you will be the one that fits you the best. If possible, dive it in the pool before you buy ... if not, make sure to try it on with cylinder attached and have someone try moving the cylinder side-to-side while it's on your back to see how stable it feels.

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

 

[xSandman3]

Been diving a Balance for a year now, about 50 dives total. Works great, still looks like brand new, never a problem. My next BC will probably be a BP/Wing, but I see the Balance lasting for a long time til then.

 

[outlawaggie]

If you're looking for heavy-duty and "light tech" capable, the Zeagle Ranger is the only one of the four that fits the bill. They fit you like a glove too.

I second that. I have the Brigade from Scubatoys which is the Ranger but with a slightly smaller bladder. I love it.

 

[shooter226]

One more thing about the Zeagle "Ripcord".

If you have to dump your weights, the Zeagle is the only one that lets you put any kind of weight, soft, hard, rocks exc. in the pocket. You do not have to have a special insert like the others.

Mark

 

[dwright]

I will aggree with the "get a backplate and wing" crowd. I started out with a Scubapro Knighthawk and now have an OMS bp/w setup....it's the most adjustable and configurable setup you'll ever get.

 

[MyDiveLog]

I know Seaquest makes a Balance BC, does Scuba Pro as well...?

You're right ... my bad.