recreational/warm water only (which bcd?)

[tmc13]

---------- Post added June 24th, 2013 at 02:16 PM ----------



Halocline's posts basically has most of the information you need covered. Besides DSS and Oxycheq, Dive Rite and Hollis make quality reasonably priced BP/W setups. Also please remember that many online dive shops will deal with you so you may be able to get an item for less than the advertised price.

For tropical diving, Hollis and Dive Rite have a 25 lb wing which is in between the 20 and 30 lb lift wings that Oxycheq and DSS provide.[/QUOTE]

I like the idea of having something in between the 20 and 30 lb range.

Cave Adventurer's has a great deal on a 23lbs wing set up, might be worth checking out.

Hog Single Tank Wing Package [HOG-WingPKG-01] - $289.99 : Cave Adventurers!, We will NOT be undersold!!!

Thanks for the link: looks like a nice rig. I have a couple more questions, one of which may sound stupid, but remember I'm a newbie.
1) Do these backplates sit right up against your back when on? It seems like it would be uncomfortable with no padding between the backplate and your back. Especially with no wetsuit. Does the wing act as a cushion? Sorry, if this seems like a stupid question.

2) When I was diving for my cert. I had an Air 2 scubapro alternate inflator/regulator and really liked it. Plus, it was one less hose. I would like to incorporate one with my setup. Are they compatible with the BP/W rigs?

3) Is a crotch strap recommended?

 

[Gilchristz]

Thanks for the link: looks like a nice rig. I have a couple more questions, one of which may sound stupid, but remember I'm a newbie.
1) Do these backplates sit right up against your back when on? It seems like it would be uncomfortable with no padding between the backplate and your back. Especially with no wetsuit. Does the wing act as a cushion? Sorry, if this seems like a stupid question.

2) When I was diving for my cert. I had an Air 2 scubapro alternate inflator/regulator and really liked it. Plus, it was one less hose. I would like to incorporate one with my setup. Are they compatible with the BP/W rigs?

3) Is a crotch strap recommended?

1) The plate does sit right up against your back and its not at all uncomfortable. You can get a pad for some backplates i know Hog, Oms, Hollis, and Dive Rite make one but it is necessary and if you find it uncomfortable you can always add it later.

2) I really can't say that the air 2 is compatible because i have not used one but it is made for a 1" hose so if the wing you choose uses a 1" hose your good to go.

3) I use a crotch strap and i would recommend it because it keeps the whole BP/W from sliding up your back and keeps it in place and its not uncomfortable at all. There not that expensive to get Dive Gear Express has them for $8.99

 

[victorzamora]

1) Do these backplates sit right up against your back when on? It seems like it would be uncomfortable with no padding between the backplate and your back. Especially with no wetsuit. Does the wing act as a cushion? Sorry, if this seems like a stupid question.

2) When I was diving for my cert. I had an Air 2 scubapro alternate inflator/regulator and really liked it. Plus, it was one less hose. I would like to incorporate one with my setup. Are they compatible with the BP/W rigs?

3) Is a crotch strap recommended?

1) Yes, it does. The backplate touches your back, the wing is fully on the outside of it. They sell backpads, which I recommend eventually getting. HOWEVER, I do not recommend getting it for comfort. I recommend it because most (if not all) backpads include a storage pocket for a left bag or safety sausage....which I recommend carrying with you. I do NOT think that you need a backpad. I dove an ally BPW with no wetsuit multiple times with ZERO discomfort. In fact, I thought it was more comfortable than any other rig I had ever worn. The only one that MIGHT beat a BPW is a good SM rig. If you get it set up right, you won't even notice it. There are no stupid questions. It's not always clear and it definitely is a concern to people new to the BPW system.

2) Yes, they ARE compatible. However, I dislike them for a whole host of reasons. I'm not trying to sell you into anything, but a longhose setup has sold me....I'll never go back to short hoses. My emergency octo is on a bungee and is for ME AND ME ALONE. It's always right under my chin, stays out of my way, and is a great breathing backup. This is especially important in an OOA situation as stress is already high. Also, most of the people I dive with are aware of the procedures so it's totally standardized now. I dislike Air2's because they're trying to do too much. I like one tool for every job and one job for every tool.

3) Absolutely. It really adds to the comfort and stability of the system. I don't think anyone will disagree that a crotch strap is a huge benefit to the BP/W system.

 

[tracydr]

I hated the way my tank moved around with a jacket. It was enough to cause me to shift side to side and have a hard time with side to side trim. I switched to BP/wing for this reason and also because we do a lot of cold water diving, where it just makes sense. 16-18 pounds on a small frame was crazy but even when I dive with a skin I prefer it.
for travel, you can get the Kydex or aluminum plate and have a very light, easy to pack system. Much easier than even a tropical BC, with as much lift as you need or want, because even the 30-40 pound wings are quite streamlined.