Wing vs Traditional

[gj62]

After reviewing the thread: http://www.scubaboard.com/t46171.html

I have this question...

As someone who was trained 20 years ago to ascend vertically, etc., will using a wing style jacket (ala Halcyon) be "too new" a method that I should stick with more traditional stab jacket, etc. style BC?

Not wanting to start a religious war, but I understand that the wing provides some advantages - takes the tank weight off, clears the clutter, etc.

If the only disadvantage is ascending horizontally, can someone comment on how difficult that is to learn or become accustomed to?

Thanks!

 

[Hallmac]

Actually you can still ascend vertically if you chose to do so. The BP&W only makes it easier for divers to achieve the proper trim while eliminating a lot of excess material that drives some nuts. The Horizontal ascent vs vertical ascent is still debated and will probably will never be given up by eithor side. However both sides will agree the horizontal ascent disturbs the bottom less, appears to others as being more in control, and in truth is just as easy to do as the vertical ascent.

Hope it helps!
Hallmac

 

[roakey]

As someone who was trained 20 years ago to ascend vertically, etc., will using a wing style jacket (ala Halcyon) be "too new" a method that I should stick with more traditional stab jacket, etc. style BC?

I can't speak to diving for 20 years and trying to change, but having dove for 30 years, the BP & Wing was an excellent improvement over the normal "mainstream" equipment available today...

Roak

 

[Arnaud]

You may want to try to ascend horizontally with your current BC. You may like it, especially when you do your safety or deco stops.

 

[ElectricZombie]

If the only disadvantage is ascending horizontally, can someone comment on how difficult that is to learn or become accustomed to?

It's easy to do actually. When you start ascending horizonatally, you will notice that your ascents are slower and more contolled. This is always good. I only ascend horizontally and think it's easier than ascending vertically.

 

[Walter]

Having used both, there's not a dime's worth of difference between a vest and a wing set up. They are both excellent and easy to use horizontally or vertically. You determine your attitude in the water, not your equipment.

 

[SDAnderson]

As someone who was trained 20 years ago to ascend vertically, etc., will using a wing style jacket (ala Halcyon) be "too new" a method that I should stick with more traditional stab jacket, etc. style BC?

As someone who started diving over 30 years ago, I can report that I successfully made the transition from a horse collar to a stab jacket and then on to a backplate and wing. There is a little bit of a learing curve and you have to be willing to make changes in more than just your gear, but both technologies were a solid improvement over their predecessor, which makes the process easier and fun.

The wing and backplate is better - make the jump.

Steven

 

[DennisS]

I use a BP and wing and have no problem ascending vertically. I like to look up and make sure I'm not about to get a fin to the head from divers above me and I'm able to deflect it if I can't avoid it. The BP and wing setup is great underwater once you have your trim and bouyancy set up.