Why only for advanced?

[jk47]

Hi - I'm pretty new to diving and am finally ready to start investing in my own gear (didn't take long). I've been reading a lot, both on this board and in other places, about the different BC systems, reviews, etc. One theme I have come across in a few places is that a BP/W setup is not for the novice diver. Could someone elaborate a little on this for me? I am anxious to get out of the constricting vice grip of my rental vest (I have a high waist so everything is up around my ribcage), but obviously don't want to invest in a system that is way over my head. Any input is appreciated! Thanks in advance.

 

[Al Mialkovsky]

Some of us, with thousands of dives have decided that the BP/W isn't for us. I don't like them. I own two BCD's and am very happy with both of them. The BP/W crowd is a vocal minority at best

 

[Quarrior]

My first and only BC was and is a BP/W. The statement that they are only for advanced divers is pure BULL.

The only difficult part is taking the 3 min to learn how to deploy the long hose if you choose to use that type of configuration.

You can still use the recreational configuration of gear when using a BP/W. Using a steel tank will help prevent the dreaded face plant while on the surface.

 

[Fish_Whisperer]

Using a steel tank will help prevent the dreaded face plant while on the surface.

As will proper positioning of weights.

 

[Quarrior]

As will proper positioning of weights.

Yup, just the steel tank is a lot easier to get right the first time. It also gets a pile of weight off the hips.

 

[Al Mialkovsky]

MMMM weight belts, where do I sign up???:huh:

 

[daniel f aleman]

BWHAHAHAHAHA!

Al, thanks for the laugh.

 

[MSilvia]

The BP/W crowd is a vocal minority at best

In answer to your question, you often hear they're for advanced divers because there's a lot of misinformation out there. Since BP/W is the configuration of choice for cave diving, and gets a lot of crossover into the other technical diving realms, it's easy for the majority who have little or no experience with them to say they're "for" tech diving, and therefore too advanced for recreational divers.

In truth, they're every bit as simple as a jacket BC (if not simpler), and are great for recreational diving. Personal preference plays a big part in whether or not their right for you. Functionality, much less so.

 

[RockPile]

I agree with Al and Quarrior. It's more a matter of preference than anything else. I was certified with a bp/w and borrowed the same one for my first year. I have a comfort level with that setup.

Rent one, maybe. See if you like it. I think you will.

JB

 

[nalfein]

There's nothing complicated about the use of a bp/w. There are a great deal of options with regards to wing size, brand, style. If you opt for the bp/w route, do some research to determine what would be a suitable setup for you and your type of diving, or find someone local that you can assess your needs and give you solid advice.
I swtiched to bp/w years ago and would never switch back, but you may feel differently, try one out if you can.

good luck

chris