Seaquest Balance or Zeagle?

[iceaxe]

After reading tons of threads on bcds-- I really like the sound of a Transpac setup...unfortunately at $700 that will have to wait.

I had the opportunity to try on a Scubapro Knighthawk which really didn't fit me that well; especially when compared to the Sequest Balance I also tried. I'm still intrigued about the Zeagle brigade although I have not tried one on--it seems like it is a little more versatile than the Balance. Any advice either way?

 

[soonerwink]

I have the Balance, Bought it used for 130.00 six years ago and still love it.

 

[Divedoggie]

I have both BCs.

My Zeagle is rugged and has many options for customizing. For example, I have the size L BC with size M shoulder straps. This shortens the overall fit, but gives me the proper fit in the chest and waist. I also added a lumbar support, because I tend to spend a fair amount of time wearing my scuba unit on land before entering the water. Its also rigged for a 19cf pony. Pockets are descent, Integrated weight system is balanced and minimalistic. D rings are well placed and numerous.

The Balance is minimalistic, which I like. Its light. Its comfortable. Its dependable. The only thing that I don't like is the exhaust valve is set up far over onto the left shoulder which requires some roll onto my right side, and a head up position to vent all of the air out.
The Zeagle's exhaust valve is pretty centered at the top of the bladder, and it vents smoothly and effeciently.

So, as you can tell, I prefer my Zeagle. But I'd be perfectly happy with the Balance, too!

 

[Crawl79]

I don't really care for the Knighthawk, seen it in person a few times but never tried it on in the water. I love my Brigade and can see using mine for as long as it will last which will probably be a long time. Transpac is about the only other BC I would consider buying at this time. I have tried one on and liked it and it can be so versatile.

 

[DougNR]

Another vote for the Brigade. It does what I need it to do day in and day out. Rugged and reliable. The smaller wing on the Brigade makes it a passable travel BCD as well.

 

[1_T_Submariner]

I dive a ranger and like the quality and adjustability.

 

[brdr882]

I dive with a Zeagle Ranger and like Divedoggie I have a medium waist with large shoulders (tall and skinny is hard to find a good fit in others). I love this BC and wouldn't trade it for much else. Aqualung recently came out with a new inflater system (the i3) which is a little lever on the side that you push up to go up, and down to go down. There's also flat dump valves with this system. I'm not sure if this is offered for the Balance or not yet, but the two people I've talked to that use it say that it takes some getting used to but its pretty fun and works well when they get the hang of it. Another cool (and cheaper) BC is made by SeaSoft: the SeaLion and SeaHorse. They are super adjustable (XS-XL) and minimalistic. I haven't dove with one or talked to anyone who has so I'm curious to find out how they are if anyone out there has. The inflater on it look a little awkward. SO to answer your question... I'd put my money on a Zeagle.

 

[Rick2]

I bought my Zeagle Tech used 5 years ago, it was made in 95. I have it serviced each spring and only rinse it between dives. I dive in rocky, cold areas and visit wrecks frequently. This BC is tough and functions smoothly. Love it!!!

 

[cneal]

I have been diving a Seaquest Balance for the last five years. I have been happy with it, although the lack of pockets and limited D ring placement was a slight problem. As I had an older model with velcro weight pockets I decided to get a new BC when I had the first failure with the weight pockets.

After looking at a lot of BC's, it came down to another Balance or go with a Zeagle Ranger LTD to get D rings where I want them and pockets. I p[icked the ranger and it's on order. I'll have far more D rings than I'll ever use, but I will also have some where I want them. Having pockets that can be used will be a big change.

The Ranger will have a bit more bulk, but in the XL size the balder is about the same size (40 lb Balance - 44 lb Ranger). The Balance is a very minimal BC and is very easy to pack and use. Ask me next year and I'll tell you if I was right.

I did consider as BP&W, but that's way to complicated despite what their proponents claim.

 

[PePaw]

I dive with a Balance and i'm 100% happy with my choice. The two dumps are over the left shoulder and bottom right hand side which is handy for dumping when your horizontal and making slight depth changes.
Make sure you can try both for comfort. But both are quality BC's.