Help me pick a back inflate BCD

[Sonic04GT]

So my little brother just got certified and needs a BCD. I've been wanting a back inflate because I dive with 0 weight because of the steel tank which having all the weight on my back with a jacket style BCD I tend to roll a little bit.

The buoyancy characteristics of a back inflate seem a little more appealing, however I have never dived with one. But the obvious plan is to buy a new back inflate for myself due to the labor day sales and give my brother my Oceanic Probe LX jacket style.

Divers Direct has the Mares Journey on sale for $280
Mares Journey Plus Weight Integrated back inflate scuba BCD

Force-E SCUBA has the Zeagle Stiletto for $380
Zeagle Stiletto BCD with the Ripcord Weight System, Black

Are these both worthwhile candidates to switch from what I have right now? Would you prefer one over the other? Have to make this decision by tonight.

I will be replacing the inflator with my Atomic SS1 Safe Second

 

[Jorgy]

Of the two I would pick the Zeagle.....

You may have to add a longer corrugated hose for your SS1 to make it comfortable in your mouth.....

I also use a Milflex LP hose on my Sherwood Gemini on my travel rig.....very flexible and nice for hose routing.....

$380 for the Zeagle seems like a real deal.......

Hope this helps......M

 

[1_T_Submariner]

I have been thinking about one of these.

Check it out.

Zeagle Express Tech Deluxe BCD reviews and discounts, Zeagle

I have a Zeagle Ranger but I would like something with less padding etc...

 

[Sonic04GT]

Thanks for the input. You guys definitely prefer back inflated over the jacket style?

 

[Jorgy]

I use a BP/W which is by definition a back inflate for both my warm water travel rig and my local cold water rig....

M

 

[1_T_Submariner]

Thanks for the input. You guys definitely prefer back inflated over the jacket style?

I do prefer the Back inflate but, I have to be honest I only have 3-4 dives with a Jacket Style.

Most people on scubaboard are very passionate about there equipment opinions!

 

[wader]

I dive a back inflate Sea Quest Balance. Great rig. Can be found used for around $300. Jacket BCD's Suck. Just so you are sure on my position...

 

[noreastDIVER84]

Back inflate is definitely the way to go. I used the jacket style for a while and found that any slight turn to the side would cause you to roll. I am currently using a bp/w but did also use a back inflate bcd for a short time.

 

[Amphiprion]

Zeagle has good customer service. I called once about a regulator and they patched me through to the guy who designed it. Their bcs are highly regarded on this website and for good reason.

 

[Sonic04GT]

Awesome! I should be the proud owner of a Zeagle Stiletto tomorrow morning. I like how this one still has zipper pockets on it whereas most I've seen don't have any or have small velcro fold out ones.