I've narrowed it down to 2??

[robbcayman]

I primarily dive in Cozumel, Turks & Caicos, etc.. all tropical warm waters.

I need some help choosing the right BC as this is a pretty big decision so I want to be happy with my choice. My choices are Deep Sea Supply (possibly the hog rig or something else of theirs ??)

Or

Halcyon Eclipse/Pioneer?? My problem with the eclipse/pioneer is the STA. Since I'm traveling a lot will having the STA be a problem?? I really need some help. Thanks

 

[Humuhumunukunukuapua'a]

DSS.

It's compact, simple, a perfect singles system.

You'd be happy with either but if you want no STA, go DSS. I did!

Cheers!

 

[PerroneFord]

The pioneer system doesn't use an STA, the Eclipse does. Both of these systems are top notch and I'd take either one. I went with Halcyon because they are a local company to me. In my mind, that was about the only difference worth anything. That said, I do like the inserts in the DSS backplate better, and when I build up more BP/W systems, I will use that as a base.

 

[GreenDiverDown]

Either one! You can't go wrong.

If your weighting requirements are relatively 'normal', then you might want to get Tobin's smallest wing. Ask him about it, anyways.

My suggestion on the Halcyon would be to get their smallest Pioneer. It will fold up small for travel and is perfect for warm water diving. Even though the Pioneers don't require STAs I still use 'em.

STAs travel just fine. I've been all around the world with mine. The standard H STA weighs about two and a half pounds. The bolts were removable on the older ones... I always take my bolts out when I travel just to be certain that they wont poke my wing... but I think the last one I got had the bolts spot welded in place. In that case, it would be wise to take some care on how you pack. Bottom line... they're light... they're pretty much flat... no problem to pack.

Here's a for instance for ya... when I go to Coz I take a SS plate, a STA and an 18# Pioneer. I have plenty of room in my gear bag for all kinds of other stuff. In fact, I usually take at least two full rigs. This means in addition to my rig I toss in an AL plate, another STA, a 27# Pioneer AND a second reg setup plus guages. I still weigh in under the 40# limit. Without the double pack, my standard gear bag is about half full... including my wetsuit.

 

[robbcayman]

If I consider the Halcyon where's the cheapest place to get them? It's still up in the air about both of these rigs. The more info the better this is a fairly large purchase so I want to make the right move. Thanks guys.

 

[GreenDiverDown]

Halcyon has a "fair trade" policy. You will find the price pretty much the same everywhere... except a few shops that might jack up the price.

Extreme Exposure is always a safe bet.

The Halcyon stuff always goes for a premium. OTOH, some places are offering some of the other brands at killer prices right now. For instance, I know of one top of the line, complete rig that is going for $400... including the STA... and another BP/wing/harness combo that is an amazing $350. That one doesn't include the STA but it's a steal on a premium wing.

 

[mmadiver]

I was in the exact same place you were not to long ago, I went with the DSS hog rig because I had heard nothing but good things and the exclipse and pioneer both have those SS inflator hoses which have had some problems. DSS also has outstanding customer service if you need help figuring things out.

 

[robbcayman]

If I consider the Halcyon where's the cheapest place to get them? It's still up in the air about both of these rigs. The more info the better this is a fairly large purchase so I want to make the right move. Thanks guys.

 

[Humuhumunukunukuapua'a]

deja vu

 

[robbcayman]

Sorry for the double post. It looks like I'm leaning towards the DSS. Any and all comments welcome