First off having a SS plate does not decrease anything-- you will wear the lead one way or another. Secondly Back plates travel just as nice as the transpack, and the plates usaully only wiegh 5 lbs, not an issue. I my opinion I think the back plate is more adaptable and stable. Having had both I can tell you this. It will also last longer and since it only cost 10 bucks for new webbing, it is cheaper to replace. One more thing the Rec Wing/ II has bungees on them--this is a no-no some places, with some instructors. Granted one can take them out, but then you have those slots hanging out, looks funky... They are not needed anyways, with the Halcyon you have a choice between the Pioneer and the Eclipes, difference being the the Eclipes has a replaceable bladder. Both are low profile, niether has Bungees, and they aremade for single cylinders. There is no true do it all bladder --I have found that out the hard way,as I have had/have the DR Classic, DR Wreck Wings, OMS Wonder Bungee Monster , and Explorer, I dive with the Eclipes now on single tank dives.
As far as saving money going with the TP -- I dont see how--they both run between 500-600 bones depending on the wings you get, and if you make your own harness you might save another 50-60 bucks going with the Halcyon.
On the other hand Dive Rite has REally good Customer service, But you will not really need it with either company, because their product is so good.
Look at what you will be doing in the future. Demo both in the water (not sales floor), and lay the money down.
As I said BP are way more stable--they have less junk hanging off them, they are simply more simple.
Have a great Day!
