Tank band pockets or weight plates?

[Malpaso]

I'm finalizing my components for my first bp/w and have a question on the weight placement. On my jacket BC, I currently run 20# on my belt, 10# in the BC pockets and 6# on tank band pockets. Taking 6# off for the backplate, I'll need in the neighborhood of 30#.

Since I already have the soft weights, instead of buying a set of 8# bolt on plates for $100 (and putting 22# on my belt), I can buy two tank band pockets for $20, put 5# in each, and 20# on the belt, saving $80. Any reason not to go with the pockets instead of the plates?

 

[Scared Silly]

Trim issues would be the main reason. Once you get your BP I would do weight check. BCDs often have their own inherent buoyancy even when empty. So with a BP/W you might be able to shed a couple more pounds.

 

[Malpaso]

So the plates are better for trim?

 

[The Chairman]

They might be. I would try shifting weight around first.

 

[buddhasummer]

So the plates are better for trim?

As Scared Silly has posted it all depends on your trim requirements, how much you need to trim out and where that weight needs to be placed. As you mention "plates" I'm assuming you are referring to the DSS plates?

 

[TSandM]

Whether you put the weight in plates, or in pockets on the cambands, they are roughly in the same place (top versus bottom camband CAN make a difference).

My husband has the weight plates, and likes them. I use pockets, because I like the ability to remove the weight from the rig before, for example, swapping tanks on a boat, or before carrying the rig anywhere.

 

[Malpaso]

As you mention "plates" I'm assuming you are referring to the DSS plates?

Yes, sorry for not clarifying.

 

[eelnoraa]

I like the tideness of the the weight plate, but I like the flexibility of trim pockets. When diving wet, even with 7mm in colder water, I am leg heavy by big margin. Weight plate can't fix this for me, I have to put 8lb on the top cam band. Yeah, so it really depends on how you trim out.

 

[Ouvea]

I have weight pockets by XS Scuba. One pocket is threaded through the cam band. The other is the quick remove style, which allows me to cleanly hide the cam strap, instead of having it flop about. Plates are definitely cleaner but I find managing the system easier, as I can remove the weights. I'm not a spring chicken anymore, so portability is of concern.