NX2000 vs. ??

[canuckton]

Halloo,

I am being finagled to teach once again, and the store I work for has a policy of instructors using gear we sell. Fair enough.

However, that rules out my trusty OMS backplate and/or IQ pack.

I need to buy a BCD for teaching...I'm in the Pacific NW, coldwater, drysuit. I would prefer to hold 10-15 lbs in my BCD...sooooo...

I have available: Seaquest/USD, Apeks, Scubapro, or Mares.

The Scubapro I think is out. We don't sell much here. The Mares Syncro Powertech is ok, but the valve digs into my shoulder.

I've been thinking Apeks NX2000, which is essentially a Zeagle Tech with twin ripcords instead of a single. But what I want to know (since we don't have one in stock) is it essentially the same as a Raider? Is the raider also made in the UK, or is it Mexican, like the Black Diamond? Is the fit the same?

Because for teaching, I would prefer the Seaquest weight pockets, not the ripcords. But I want the durability of a UK made heavy cordura BCD.

Whaddya think?

 

[Divesherpa]

I have been using the Seaquest Balance. It works well when not in Doubles. Key man is really good on Seaquest. The balance has some ditchable weights, but I also use a weight belt with a small quantity of weights to aid in demonstrating skills.