OMS Back plates

[rcpilot44]

I spent today diving off the coast of Morehead City. First off TS Bertha has stirred up the Atlantic. Vis was about 10 feet on the bottom with 5-6 foot swell.. My question is I think I am ready to hang up my Zeagle BC. Most of the guys today were diving with OMS back plates and bladders. Any opinions?? Thanks

 

[The Kraken]

In my opinion, one back plate is pretty much the same as another.

All the plate does is support the webbing, bladder and tank/tanks.

Kind of like asking, "Is this piece of steel better than that piece of steel."

Bladders, however, can be a completely different issue.

the K

 

[rcpilot44]

Thanks for the clarification. What really meant was the whole OMS set up..

 

[The Kraken]

OMS makes quality gear.

Some divers like OMS others don't.

I don't mean to sound wishy-washy here, but that's just the nature of our hobby.

There are other setups that can be had that cost more and those that cost less.

However, if you feel that you would be more comfortable diving the same gear as your dive buddies, then go for it.

There is one thing that makes a good argument for your choice . . . . the divers with whom you dive use the same gear.

Famaliarity with the gear your buddy is diving is a good thing.

the K

 

[cool_hardware52]

In my opinion, one back plate is pretty much the same as another.

All the plate does is support the webbing, bladder and tank/tanks.

Kind of like asking, "Is this piece of steel better than that piece of steel."

I disagree.

While most plates are similar, there are differences.

In no particular order:

Material; SS, Aluminum, Kydex

Finish; fully finished edges and slots, or? Polished, Matte etc.

Overall shape and sizes; Square corners or rounded corners, width, lengths.

Bend angle; Steep bend, flat bend.

Depth of center Channel; Shallow, deep, medium

Camband slots; Yes or no

Accessories; Plate Pads, bolt on weights etc.

Bladders, however, can be a completely different issue.

I agree completely.

Tobin

 

[RAWalker]

I'm diving a OMS BP&W and am happy with it.

 

[PatrickDives]

Tobin,

Could you explain how the following differences are important?

Finish; fully finished, polished, matte, etc...?
Shape; rounded corners vs. square?
Bend Angle?
Depth of Center Channel?

I understand thes points you mentioned; material, camband slots, and accessories, but I am not familiar with the other points that you mentioned.

Thanks.

Patrick.

 

[cool_hardware52]

Finish; fully finished, polished, matte, etc...?

Is the plate finished, i.e. deburred, or does it have sharp edges. This a genuine concern. The degree of polish is unimportant, IMO, for other than aesthetics, but different plates "sport" different finishes

Shape; rounded corners vs. square?

Some plates have small radius corners, vs plates with larger radius corners. At the bottom of the plate this can impact the fit, and comfort. Larger radius corners reduces the chance the plate will dig in at the kidneys

Bend Angle?

The included angle between the main flat surfaces of the plate. Some plates have a lot more bend. The bend angle impacts fit and comfort. The bend angle also effects how much a single tank will be offset from the diver.

Depth of Center Channel?

A deep center channel will offset a single tank further from the divers back than a shallow center channel.

Tobin

 

[do it easy]

I have both OMS stainless steel and aluminum backplates, and I think they are very high quality- the edges are rounded and all the right holes are already drilled in. There are even 3 different holes for mounting the tank and wing so that you have some control over the trim.

I had a quick release harness originally, but I eventually switched to a one piece harness. Among other reasons, I wanted to put my d-ring right where the quick release buckle was.

I also have the 60 lbs wing for my doubles (no bungees) and have used the 32 lb single wing. I think these are as good, if not better, than lots of wings that I have seen. One issue is that the inflator hoses seem to be either too long or too short for most people's taste. It can be changed, so that should be weighed when comparing other wings- extra cost versus fit, etc.

Next time you go out, chat with those other divers about their gear.

Tobin made some excellent points about backplates- he also makes some excellent products.

 

[SlowRain]

I can't speak to OMS much beyond what I own, Slipsteam fins, and a 60# bungeed wing. I really like the wing!