Seaquest Black Diamond, Balance, Scubapro Knighthawk, Aeris Atmos XT - opinions?

[8buck]

I own a black diamond and i love it. I have no problems with it diving or packing. I was just wondering if it is decent for doubles and can it be done. (al80's) I saw a thread and two guys said they dove doubles with it. Anybody else dove doubles on it.

And did the navy go to black diamond with the intention on doubles??

 

[cid`]

BD can handle twins/doubles fine. Just keep in mind you will need the appropriate amount of lift for the cylinders that are to be used. I've had double HP80's on it with no issues, kind of leary with twin HP100's as it is a heavier setup/diving with a wetsuit. My suggestion to if you want larger than AL80 or HP80, try it in a pool with full weights and see how it handles, also think about how deep you will be going with them if you are diving wet. May be better off getting a bladder/backplate.

Navy has a large list of equipment thats 'approved' for them. BD is one that is listed and approved and actually used for certain applications..

 

[j-valve]

I've had the Black Diamond for over a year now. It's been to Coz, Cenotes, Quarry River, and handled it all great. It is a bit bulky when you are trying to fit all your stuff into one bag for the plane though. I dive dry most of the time and the quick release shoulder points are GREAT. I slide in the right arm, connect the inflator hose, then buckle up, quick and with no buddy. Only problem is I'm a shorter guy 5'6 and I find the back a bit high( or my neck is too low...), although I tighten everything super tight. It will take doubles, if you dare.

Jody

 

[coberry7]

I dive a KnightHawk. What would you like to know about it? I'd be more than happy to help.

Colin

 

[Greg_Manko]

It's Great BC.
I don't use the Air2 alternate air source - I was told it might be harder to fix if I am on a trip, etc, etc.
One less hose however, and I haven't heard of one failing....
It's a very comfy BC, well made, not too bulky, enough D-rings.
Can't really use doubles with it, but I'm not technical anyway.
And $310 for a one in good condition with an Air2 seems like a very good deal.
Happy diving. I don't think you'll be disappointed

 

[DFC5343]

Navy still dives the bands and harness for doubles with a Seatec Sunfish horse collar. The BD are for the standby rig and the "occasional" hobby lob with a single 80 or 100.

 

[SeaJay]

Here's some of my comments on them:

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=401427&highlight=black+diamond#post401427

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=276950&highlight=black+diamond#post276950

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=393295&highlight=black+diamond#post393295

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=385917&highlight=black+diamond#post385917

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=359188&highlight=black+diamond#post359188

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=307509&highlight=black+diamond#post307509

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=305908&highlight=black+diamond#post305908

 

[OglalaDiver]

Have a SeaQuest Balance and love it! Very comfortable, easy to pack, does exactly what I need a BC to do. If I wear this one out, will definitely replace it with another Balance.

 

[MgicTwnger]

OglalaDiver once bubbled...
Have a SeaQuest Balance and love it! Very comfortable, easy to pack, does exactly what I need a BC to do. If I wear this one out, will definitely replace it with another Balance.

What he said. Been using it for almost two years, no problems.
BTW, you can get 10 pounds in each of the ditchable pockets, and five in each of the backs.

 

[joed]

try the atmos. My lds let me try one befre I bought it and its pretty good. I found with weights in the back I tilted forward while on the surface. So I only use the front pockets for weight. real nice. Push the button and decend real quick.