Weight belt VS. integrated

[Shiprekd]

I use both actually. My usual set-up is 2- 2#'s in my trim (back) pockets of the BC and a pair of 2#'s on a weight belt.

If I'm with students, I add on another 2-4lbs just in case I have to latch on and weigh them down (especially during the gear removal skills)

 

[Moogyboy]

my two bits:

I'm getting geared up to finally get in some diving with my Stratos, which of course is integrated. My thinking is that I'd split the weight between the pockets and a belt such that the BCD's ditch pockets have enough weight for no-suit in fresh water (I'm guessing about 5-7 lbs), and I make up for the rest on the belt as the dive dictates. For my usual quarry diving in my 3mm shorty I could probably get away with just a few extra lbs in the non-ditch back pockets or a belt. Those times when I put on the thick suit for cooler water I'd of course go with a heavier belt along with whatever is in the BCD. I'd rather not like to ditch all 24 lbs, or whatever it was, at once when I'm 60-70' down, clad head to toe in 6.5mm foam neoprene. That would be bad.

This is a tough question, I gotta say, so I'm kinda going on conjecture and what usually passes for common sense. Basically, integrate a sort of "default weight" into the BCD and add as necessary.

cheers

Billy S.