Need info and opinions on my first BC.

[MaizeNBlue88]

I've been searching long and hard for that BC that catches my eye as the one I just NEED to have. Here's the thing, I'm searching for my first BC and want to make the right choice (whatever that means) the first time. I don't want to be bitter that I have to buy another one down the road because the one I buy just isn't capable for a certain type of diving.
Right now I'm currently considering the Apeks WTX system because of its modular nature. It would suit me now being a new diver and using a single tank. But it would also be able to work down the road when I want to dive doubles or whatever the case may be. I'm not opposed to the price because I realize the possibilities. I just want to know what you guys/gals think of the WTX system.
Another thing, are there any other BCs that I don't know about that have modular capabilities? Or perhaps BCs with multipurpose capabilities. As I said I am a new diver and realize I'm a bit ignorant on this stuff but have done quite a bit of research and somewhat know what I want. I've used both jacket and back inflate BCs and definitely want a back inflate. Also, I want something that has the capabilities for various types of diving, hence my interest in the modular Apeks WTX. I'm not looking for which BC (or brand) is the "Best in the World". Just one that can grow with me as I develop as a diver. All responses are appreciated and thank you.

 

[grf88]

I see you just joined the board so welcome. Just a quick browse through some of the posts in this forum will tell you that there is a definite preference for a backplate and wing among many members of this board and that is probably the most modular of any system. Take a look at a few of the threads on BP/W or backplate and wing and then maybe ask some more questions.

Edit
I see that the WTX is a backplate system so you are well on your way. There are many different wings and backplates available from good manufacturers so read away on the many different threads on the subject.

 

[KevinNM]

I don't have a deep familiarity with this. But while Apeks makes good gear and the WTX backplate and wing system seems fine I'd suggest avoiding the "WTX Harness" and instead use their "Deluxe One-Piece Harness" with the "WTX Back Plate". It has a lot less things that can break and has plenty of d-rings.

Similar style BCDs are made by multiple vendors, the top quality ones US made ones generally said to be Halcyon, DSS (deep sea systems), Oxycheq and Dive Rite.

 

[runsongas]

only complaint about the apeks wtx is probably the pricing. DSS is a bit cheaper and the DRIS/Soprasub/HOG setups are cheaper still if you are buying new. I am pretty happy with the wtx3 i got off another SB member.

 

[cool_hardware52]

I've been searching long and hard for that BC that catches my eye as the one I just NEED to have. Here's the thing, I'm searching for my first BC and want to make the right choice (whatever that means) the first time. I don't want to be bitter that I have to buy another one down the road because the one I buy just isn't capable for a certain type of diving.
Right now I'm currently considering the Apeks WTX system because of its modular nature. It would suit me now being a new diver and using a single tank. But it would also be able to work down the road when I want to dive doubles or whatever the case may be. I'm not opposed to the price because I realize the possibilities. I just want to know what you guys/gals think of the WTX system.
Another thing, are there any other BCs that I don't know about that have modular capabilities? Or perhaps BCs with multipurpose capabilities. As I said I am a new diver and realize I'm a bit ignorant on this stuff but have done quite a bit of research and somewhat know what I want. I've used both jacket and back inflate BCs and definitely want a back inflate. Also, I want something that has the capabilities for various types of diving, hence my interest in the modular Apeks WTX. I'm not looking for which BC (or brand) is the "Best in the World". Just one that can grow with me as I develop as a diver. All responses are appreciated and thank you.

Hi MaizeNBlue,

Modular is a good strategy, but it does demand you make some choices about which set of components you choose. The range of choices, even within a single brand, can be a bit intimidating. I'd be happy to walk you through how I determine what plate and wing is appropriate for a given application. I have found that doing so interactively via the phone is the most productive. Feel free to call. 626-799-5078.

Tobin

 

[tbone1004]

call Tobin, support US based manufacturing, get gear that is just as high quality if not higher, and likely save a few bucks. Tobin knows his stuff, this is no quip against Apeks or your LDS or anything, but there are very few in the industry that know the nuances of setting up a BP/W properly like Tobin does and there is a method to all of his madness in wing design, plus his plates are positively spectacular.

 

[dberry]

Welcome, MaizeNBlue88! (interesting you're located in Buckeye territory, btw
I'm in a similar situation and got a lot of good advice in response to a recent post. BP/W made sense to me (I don't mind the initial fiddling around, I like the modularity, etc.) There are a LOT of choices and a bewildering range of prices.

FWIW, I ended up going with an Oxycheq wing (40#, bright orange, normal discount price from a good LDS), used DiveRite TransPlate harness, and SS plate ("Blue Reef" aka LeisurePro house brand, $70.) Assembling it, breaking it down, and reassembling it was a great learning experience; now I've got a pretty good understanding of how it all works together and why. Making changes or adjustments in the future just won't be a big deal. There are decent instructions with photos on-line.

Several experienced users commented that the complexity of the "adjustable" harnesses isn't worth the cost and hassle, and that the basic harness style is fine for most people. The adjustable or deluxe harnesses do have a bunch of plastic releases and buckles that probably aren't necessary unless you are sharing your rig with someone, and are possible failure points. After fitting my rig a few times I understand their point - a basic harness probably would have been fine. Although as a fairly hefty guy with a some of rotator cuff issues, I appreciate having the quick-release on the shoulder straps. YMMV.

IMO, shoulder pads are also a good idea, but the "pads" on the TransPlate seem only slightly softer than the 2" webbing and get in the way somewhat. I may pitch them later. Some folks fit their own pads from modified padded backpack straps.

And if you go the BP/W route and keep reading these forums, you may want to get a bicycle inner tube BEFORE you assemble your harness. Pieces cut into fat rubber bands are nice as hose keepers (and for tucking in belt-strap ends), but they need to be threaded onto the shoulder webbing during assembly. "Normal" mountain bike inner tubes aren't really wide enough; I couldn't find anything wider at the usual suspects (EMS, Sears, Target, Dicks, etc), but a local bike shop did the trick (duh). The guy didn't find any fat tubes in his shop trash cans, but a new one was only $2. After cutting out the valve I had 7ft of quality butyl rubber tubing - which was about 6ft more than needed for my harness.

Have fun!
-Don

MGoBlue!

 

[Mcarlson]

Zeagle BCs are also modular - at least the Ranger is. It can be fit for doubles, and likely a 2nd bladder. I'm Not sure about the 2nd bladder, but I can't see why you couldn't with the attachment system they use.

 

[ams511]

The WTX harness lists at $390, for that price you are better off trying to find a Dive Rite Voyager Pac which is a complete BC for $100 less. DGX and Leisurepro were closing them out. The only drawback is you lose modularity.

As to the Apeks line. I like their backplate, pockets, and deluxe 1 piece web harness. I dislike the WTX-3 buoyancy cell. It is big, floppy, and bladderless.

 

[cnherrick]

My impression is that the big choice is BP/Wing versus Jacket.

Once one is past that, one seems to be into the details.

I dive a Zeagle Ranger and I'm on the hunt for a BP/Wing.

It would appear that if you're going to end up going tech/DIR you will want a BP/wing. If Rec is fine, a jacket BCD is comfortable and the Zeagle Ranger is straight forward.

If Jacket is the choice, consider how often you will be putting that BCD into a suitcase and traveling. There are travel/light-weight/simple jackets that are a better fit in a suitcase.

BP/Wing alternatives include Halcyon (GUE) and HOG.

Does that help?

---------- Post added March 16th, 2015 at 12:37 PM ----------

...how I determine what plate and wing is appropriate for a given application...

Tobin, do your BP/Wings use anything like the Halcyon GUE cinch?

If not, why not?