TheFoggyMask
Contributor
- Messages
- 257
- Reaction score
- 1
We seem to get the exact same questions through here constantly, and the battle over vest versus backplate and wing is a tremendous one to be fought for the ages. If anyone has brand name or a specific model they prefer, write a review and give links and I will update the original post.
First! Try on a bunch of gear before you make your decision for a BC. Consider, how often will I be diving? What are my future plans for this equipment? If you're planning on being a tourist-only diver, take that into account. Your local dive shop can give you good advice as well, but keep in mind they are salesmen
/////////////////////Back Plate and Wing////////////////////////////
Backplates are a steel backplate with simple straps and a wing for bouyancy control located on the back just below the tank. The wing is on your back, which, on the surface, will mean that you will have to lean back slightly while floating. Many believe that the wing being on your back will help you to stay horizontal and trim underwater. Backplates are preferred by technical divers, including cave divers and wreck divers, for their simple and steamlined design. Less fabric and generally "clutter" result in a rig which does not easily become caught on obstructions and good streamlining.
Integrated weight systems or a weight belt are used in the BP/W system. Pockets for holding weight are available, and the BP itself does add 5-6 pounds of negative weight already. An optional single weight adapter bar can be added to the Halcyon model for another six pounds, potentially bringing it to 12 pounds of weight total. This lessens the amount of weight you will have to wear as a weight belt or in a pouch.
D-rings located on crotch straps, the side, and chest are used to hook on gear. An optional pouch bolted to the center of the backplate can house surface "Diver Below" devices.
Once adjusted for a diver, BP usually will not need to be readjusted as there are no velcrow, buckles, and only one strap to adjust. The straps loop through the backplate in one long piece of webbing, and although not easily, can be replaced with some effort if they become weakened or broken.
BP/W systems generally lack pockets, as they are extra "clutter" on the front of the diver, and wetsuit pockets sometimes take their place. BP/W systems are a bit trickier to get into than a vest. This style of BC will likely last you forever as there are very few parts to break, and the actual bladder is encased in tough fabric that can be unzipped to service or replace it inexpensively.
Two brands of BP/W that are most popular are Dive Rite, www.diverite.com, and Halcyon, www.halcyon.net. Diverite is slightly more expensive but offers more features that a recreational diver might appreciate, such as a quick release and a means of getting into the BC easier. More pockets and options for padding are also available. Halycon offers a simple BC with Spartan features, no more than you need and no less.
I honestly can't give a good side of this for vest BCs. I will make a composite and update the original post with anything anyone would like to add, for for against either style.
First! Try on a bunch of gear before you make your decision for a BC. Consider, how often will I be diving? What are my future plans for this equipment? If you're planning on being a tourist-only diver, take that into account. Your local dive shop can give you good advice as well, but keep in mind they are salesmen
/////////////////////Back Plate and Wing////////////////////////////
Backplates are a steel backplate with simple straps and a wing for bouyancy control located on the back just below the tank. The wing is on your back, which, on the surface, will mean that you will have to lean back slightly while floating. Many believe that the wing being on your back will help you to stay horizontal and trim underwater. Backplates are preferred by technical divers, including cave divers and wreck divers, for their simple and steamlined design. Less fabric and generally "clutter" result in a rig which does not easily become caught on obstructions and good streamlining.
Integrated weight systems or a weight belt are used in the BP/W system. Pockets for holding weight are available, and the BP itself does add 5-6 pounds of negative weight already. An optional single weight adapter bar can be added to the Halcyon model for another six pounds, potentially bringing it to 12 pounds of weight total. This lessens the amount of weight you will have to wear as a weight belt or in a pouch.
D-rings located on crotch straps, the side, and chest are used to hook on gear. An optional pouch bolted to the center of the backplate can house surface "Diver Below" devices.
Once adjusted for a diver, BP usually will not need to be readjusted as there are no velcrow, buckles, and only one strap to adjust. The straps loop through the backplate in one long piece of webbing, and although not easily, can be replaced with some effort if they become weakened or broken.
BP/W systems generally lack pockets, as they are extra "clutter" on the front of the diver, and wetsuit pockets sometimes take their place. BP/W systems are a bit trickier to get into than a vest. This style of BC will likely last you forever as there are very few parts to break, and the actual bladder is encased in tough fabric that can be unzipped to service or replace it inexpensively.
Two brands of BP/W that are most popular are Dive Rite, www.diverite.com, and Halcyon, www.halcyon.net. Diverite is slightly more expensive but offers more features that a recreational diver might appreciate, such as a quick release and a means of getting into the BC easier. More pockets and options for padding are also available. Halycon offers a simple BC with Spartan features, no more than you need and no less.
I honestly can't give a good side of this for vest BCs. I will make a composite and update the original post with anything anyone would like to add, for for against either style.
