What to look for in a BC

[jakubson]

Hi there,

Since I do not know about BP/W, I will just comment on Oceanic.

If you do go with Oceanic, I like the Flex. It is the same as the Probe without all the fancy extra pockets that IMHO just add drag. The two main pocket are HUGE - in one I keep my "emergency kit" (which includes 5' folding dive flag, signal mirror, PC-1 backup light, and folding snorkel) and don't really notice that it's there.

Good Luck!

 

[utnapistim]

BTW, I would look for a comfortable and secure fit first and foremost. Then I would want a couple of D rings, and at least one good pocket for whatever I want to put in it. Lastly, it better be high level (1000) denier/cordura or rubber or whatever that is durable.

Ok, I own the Orion, so here are my opinions on it: in the long run, it's as cheap as it gets; it's made of 840 denier and looks very tough. I think you could trash it around a bit with no problems (though i didn't do that ... much ).

One look at it and you see that there's not much care for economy with it - it has 14 D-rings for example (I only used three), and two tankstraps.

It also has a front pocket, but you can barely fit a mask in there (and that's if you try hard). I guess you could fit something else in there though ... like shears, or a small knife.

According to their website, the low cost comes from no intermediaries and cheap working labour.



There are two downsides to it that I could find:

1. it's a bit heavyer than other BCs, and a bit more buoyant (that means you'll need like 1 extra kg of lead). But I guess that doesn't really count once you get in the water.

2. when it's wet, the yellow stitching saying "Orion" on it is also wet, and not so flashy anymore :369:.

 

[wunat]

I would only say to take your time and don't rush in on making your decisions on choossing your dive equipment.

I bought a SeaQuest ProQD+ as my first BCD and were very happy with it. Then I have overcome some recommendations on BP+Wing setup. This recommedation is confirmed by many other members on this web board. Then I went out and get myself a DiveRite BP+Wing setup, which I am in love with. Should I have know this web board sooner, I would probably just get he BP+Wing setup in the first place.

Not saying BP+Wing setup is the ultimate choice. I would simply suggest to take your time in doing research on getting your equipment.

Ciao,