Hi, I'm new to scubaboard and chat forums, but not to diving. I need some advice on buying a new BC. I am a 5ft nothing 43kg (95lb) woman who normally wears a drysuit. I love my current Oceanic Youth, but the integrated weights aren't locked in and one is 100m on the ocean floor in Palau & the other has made every attempt to join it! Not sure I want a back inflated type even though I like my arms free to take photos, as I heard they tilt you head down and this wouldn't be good for my type of drysuit (ok for my wetties). Any advice out there? Robyn from Canberra
Searching for a new BC
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scubafritz
Registered
I use a Zeagle Ranger (back inflate) BC with my dry suit (DUI) and have no problem with buoyancy balance. But it's all according to what you get used to.
I like being able to trim with my head slightly down for searching without silting the bottom.
I also use this technique for photography. I also can trim for level swimming as well, just trial and error.
You should be able to try different BCs
I like being able to trim with my head slightly down for searching without silting the bottom.
I also use this technique for photography. I also can trim for level swimming as well, just trial and error.
You should be able to try different BCs
RonFrank
Contributor
Mod Post
This has been moved to the equipment section
Mod Post
This has been moved to the equipment section
Mod Post
RonFrank
Contributor
For a smallish woman the Ranger has too large of a bladder (45lbs lift).
I like Zeagle however, and would highly recommend the Zeagle Stiletto. They also make a couple of BC's for females, and if you have a very curvy body, those maybe worth a look.
I like back inflate over jacket style. You WILL get some responses telling you that BP/W's are what every diver should have. I also own a BP/W, and while I do like it, IMO it's not the cat's meow that all the converts suggest, but definitely something you may want to consider. I like my BP/W because it puts 12lbs+ on my back and off the belt. For dry diving that is a big plus. The downside IMO is that I have to wear a weight belt. DUI makes a very cool harness, but I have not purchased one.
There is a LOT of stuff out there. If you are generally easy to fit, I'd look for comfort, and a bladder that is no bigger than 30lbs. One thing I like about the Zeagles is there is no weight pouch, but it is weight integrated. Loosing one of those integrated pouches can be an expensive proposition, but most do lock in these days. No need for that with the Zeagle, check one out, and you will see why.
I like Zeagle however, and would highly recommend the Zeagle Stiletto. They also make a couple of BC's for females, and if you have a very curvy body, those maybe worth a look.
I like back inflate over jacket style. You WILL get some responses telling you that BP/W's are what every diver should have. I also own a BP/W, and while I do like it, IMO it's not the cat's meow that all the converts suggest, but definitely something you may want to consider. I like my BP/W because it puts 12lbs+ on my back and off the belt. For dry diving that is a big plus. The downside IMO is that I have to wear a weight belt. DUI makes a very cool harness, but I have not purchased one.
There is a LOT of stuff out there. If you are generally easy to fit, I'd look for comfort, and a bladder that is no bigger than 30lbs. One thing I like about the Zeagles is there is no weight pouch, but it is weight integrated. Loosing one of those integrated pouches can be an expensive proposition, but most do lock in these days. No need for that with the Zeagle, check one out, and you will see why.
Dragon Eye
Contributor
I'm 5'3" and I'm not a fan of BP/W I have an Oceanic Hera and LOVE it! It's a little bit different than most jacket style BC's but extremely customizable/adjustable. You'd probably fit an XS, as my Small is adjusted all the way down FWIW. It is integrated, but the clips/velcro are very secure and tough.
The best bet is to look at a bunch and try them on!
Best of luck!
The best bet is to look at a bunch and try them on!
Best of luck!
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