What is the most common BP with a steel tank?

[GaryBDavis]

I'm putting together my new BP/W configuration and I've done the bouyancy math with different tanks, backplates, etc. What I really need to do is gear up and get in the pool to see just where I'm at. But, that does me no good in the steel/aluminum BP purchase decision. I'll probably end up buying both...

So what is more common in 5mm wet suit, 72 degree fresh water, steel tank diving? SS or aluminum?

Same question for 3mm, tropic destination salt water diving where I would be using AL80?

Thanks,
Gary

 

[Scared Silly]

In general for single tank diving a SS BP is used. For the tropics I use one with an al80 and 4lbs of lead. My wife just used a LP95 and her 7mm with her SS BP and added 4lbs to it.

Note we do not use a STA with our BP. STA add more weight.

 

[iztok]

When I dive single steel (HP119) I use SS BP and no extra weight is needed for 5mm. To be honest even with AL80 and SS BP and InstaDry 5mm wetsuit I don't need any additional weight (210lb/2'8")

 

[cbrich]

When I dive single steel (HP119) I use SS BP and no extra weight is needed for 5mm. To be honest even with AL80 and SS BP and InstaDry 5mm wetsuit I don't need any additional weight (210lb/2'8")

Sorry dude, but could not help myself.

 

[GaryBDavis]

This is just the type of feedback I'm looking for. Looks like the SS BP I ordered should do it for me. I'm 6' 0", 215lbs. I'm planning on using it without STA and adding a weight or two to it if I need more weight.

Edit: With about 9 to 6 lbs more negative bouyancy from an AL80 to a HP119 (those are full and empty deltas), I'm hoping to get buy without any weights. Only the bouyancy test will know...

 

[USVet96]

 

[iztok]

Sorry dude, but could not help myself.

No worries. It is FUNNY. I meant 5'8" obviously