How many use BP/W for single tank warm rec diving?

[Phocus]

Looking for first BC and thought about going BP/W even though I would be diving recreationally mostly warm water, single tank. Make more sense to go with a Back inflate BC (Knighthawk, Zeagle,...)?

 

[SailNaked]

I do, my first real BC was a BP/W love it would not have it any other way. most of the Back inflate BC's I looked at were not qualitatively different than a BP/W in their function however the flexibility of a BP/W exceeds all the BC's. A back inflate will float you face down unless you float on your back, if that is not acceptable to you then do not get one otherwise they are great for warm water single tank diving.

 

[Scubagolf]

Take a look at this recent poll and especially the comments. You may find it useful.
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/basic-scuba-discussions/315670-what-level-diver-what-type-bc.html

 

[Wookie]

Hung the BCD up years ago and never looked back. I've worn out 3 wings on single tank rec diving.

 

[parzdiver]

I dive a BP/W in warm water. I love the stability, simplicity and comfort.

I have recently purchased a Zeagle Express Tech, which is very similar in configuration to a BP/W and very inexpensive. The reason for the purchase is travel weight (<5 lbs) and compactness. It is very close to a BP/W, but it is not the same and not quite as comfortable or stable, IMHO.

Under weight constraints for travel I will use the Express Tech, but if I can get away with taking the BP/W, or if I lived in a warm water location, I'd dive the BP/W.

 

[petemoss]

I rented equipment to take to the Carribean and this included BC's of course. After much deliberation and great info provided by all the far more intelligent folks than me on this great site I went with the back plate and wing. Although at this time I do not use a hog rig, I am constructing my own plate and will try a hog harness with this. Everyone of course has to make their own descision and I certainly see mostly BC's where I have been. From my perspective I can not tell you how satisified I am with the BP/W. Far superior TO ME than a BC.
Good luck with your decision.

Pete

 

[cbrich]

I dive a bp/w and I can't imagine going back to a BCD. I feel more stable in the water and also on dry land.

 

[vondo]

I dive a BP/W with single tanks exclusively. Like cbrich, I like the feeling of stability in the water. My only complaint is that the 35-lb Golem wing I have is a bit heavy/bulky for warm water travel, so I'm thinking to add a 17-lb wing for traveling. The 35-lb wing is great for local diving though.

 

[StreetDoctor]

yes...

 

[Splitlip]

I dive a BP/W with single tanks exclusively. Like cbrich, I like the feeling of stability in the water. My only complaint is that the 35-lb Golem wing I have is a bit heavy/bulky for warm water travel, so I'm thinking to add a 17-lb wing for traveling. The 35-lb wing is great for local diving though.

Be sure to check out the Oxy Mach V 18#. Below compared to the 30#. Mounted and depending on your cylinder, it could be slightly leaas than 18.

I use it in the summer with steel 100 and aluminum plate. Perfect.
Steel plate and steel tanks the small wings are probably undersized.