new BC for Xmas

[scubapro50]

I have decided to ask "Santa" for a new BC for Xmas. I'm a large guy (6ft2 and 240lbs.) and would like recomendation from other XL divers on how they like their BC's and suggestions on what models I should be lookin at.

 

[Far_X]

Go backplate and wing and one size fits all Just joking. I am switching to BP/W set up this winter as I have lost so much weight this year that what was nice and snug at the beginning of the season is now not snug. I was able to tighten a few straps here and there but my cumberband is really a bit too big and can't be made any smaller.

 

[shooter226]

You should decide if you want a back flotation or a jacket type BCD.

Back flotation is the one that I like the best, I use a Zeagle Ranger. The Ranger will give you much more room to grow.

In the Jacket you can't beat the Scubapro Classic.

Whichever you decide on remember if you buy quality now you don't have to later.

Check out your LDS and see if they will let you try one in the pool.

Also think about an Alternate Air Inflator when buying a new BCD. They are cheaper packaged together.

Mark

 

[Scubaroo]

What sort of diving do you do now, and what sort do you want to do in future? Do you want to dive single tanks or double tanks? What sort of tanks - al or steel? Would you ever be carrying O2 for deco? Warm water or cold water? Do you want to travel by air with the BC? There's more to BC selection than just height and weight.

FWIW I'm 6'4", 220lb and use a backplate and wings.

 

[DavyJones]

I'm also 6ft2 and in the 250ish area. I have been diving in a Dacor Nautica BC that was roughly two sizes too small for the past 4 years. Now I have the means to buy a new BC before the spring and think I'll stick with the jacket type. I found (and this is only my opinion)the jacket type helps you float in more of an upright position on the surface and a BP/W BC tends to push one face first in the water. As I spend alot of time on the surface with students that is helpful to not have to work as hard to stay upright. The BC I'm looking to buy is the Sherwood Avid. The best thing I've found about the Avid is that when you fill it, it tends to open up so that your breathing is not hinderd as opposed to other jacket types that close in around you putting pressure on your ribs and making it harder to breath.

 

[scubatoys]

Hey Scubapro50... how about a Dacor?? :11: Just kidding! I've followed your posts!

The Sherwood Avid mentioned above is probably the nicest quality jacket style in the $325 range and they even come in XL and XXL if needed.

I'm 6'4 and wear a Large Zeagle Brigade. Depending on where you are wearing that 240 lbs... you might be an XL, but would probably be happier staying with Large shoulders on it.

As Scubaroo pointed out - so much will depend on what you are going to do with it. The Brigade would not be your choice if you want to dive doubles - but it's hearty, and packs up pretty small.

 

[scubapro50]

What sort of diving do you do now, and what sort do you want to do in future? Do you want to dive single tanks or double tanks? What sort of tanks - al or steel? Would you ever be carrying O2 for deco? Warm water or cold water? Do you want to travel by air with the BC? There's more to BC selection than just height and weight.

FWIW I'm 6'4", 220lb and use a backplate and wings.

I fly at least once a year to dive in Cayman or Florida .... use single 80's that are provided by the boats. Don't do deco dives anymore or nitrox. Have been using a larger Dacor jacket which has helded up great but have just out growned it in the last few years. Sold my AIR2 last June and now use a Scubapro oct on my Mk10. Have thought about several different brands but haven't made up my mind. Also looked at used XL BCs on E Bay because of the lower cost. Scubapro makes good vests (still have my horsecollar BC) There are lots of good ones out there that's why I want to find out from people who own them what they like or dislike about a particular model.

 

[hermosadive]

I'm 6'2, 245lbs. I own an Aeris Atmos XT hybrid inflation BC which I love compared to other jacket style BC's I've used. BUT, I just started using a SS backplate and wing, Hammerhead Scuba Backplate and Oxycheq 30# wing. I won't get rid of my Atmos, but it will be collecting some dust in my garage. I will be adding an alunimum backplate this year for warm water diving.

I'm diving singles and love the simplicty of the harness. I find it comfortable, but it is a different fit and feel from a jacket. The Atmos is also a great fit and I barely notice it underwater. No fancy pockets or junk either.

Try both out if you get a chance.

 

[scubapro50]

have made my choice ... Zeagle Ranger ... borrowed a buddy's Ranger to try out last weekend and really liked it .... have made several bids on E Bay (there is no Zeagle dealer in area .... looked at Zeagle web sight and nearest one is in Dallas)

 

[Jason B]

BP/W BC tends to push one face first in the water

Totally incorrect. Sure, if you pump it to hold the max amount of air, but they require nowhere near that much air to support you at the surface.

Jason