Zeagel scout vs others weight set up

[halocline]

Hi;

Can someone explain to me the exact differences between the weight integration set up on the scout and the other zeagle rec BCs? I know that the scout has a velcro based release while the other have a pull cord. What I need to know is: 1) How secure is the velcro set up, especially after a few years, and 2) Assuming I'm using 12lbs or less, is there a real advantage in being able to distribute the weight more forward on my hips, or is keeping the weights in the back pockets okay?

I weigh about 165lbs; with a 3mil suit and a AL80 I usually go with 8-10 lbs in the ocean. I have one of the "pocket" style weight belts and some soft weights; I suppose I could easily use this for supplemental weight in colder water.

It seems to me that the weight system is the primary difference between the scout and a few of the other zeagle rec BCs and is mostly responsible for the cost difference. Agreed? Oh yeah, does the lack of front weight pouches produce any noticible improvement in streamlining with the scout? IOW, assuming the weight issues are okay, might the scout be a more comfortable warm water BC than the others?

Thanks!!

Matt

 

[herman]

The "weight system" on the Scout is really a couple of ditchable weight pockets mounted beside the tank, what would be considered trim pockets on other BC's. They are good for 8-10 at best, anything more and you tend to turtle or at least I do. The velcro does fine for a few pounds but I would not put a lot in it. Your best bet is use a weight belt in addition to or instead of the Scout weight system. I use my Scout as a warm water BC with around 6lbs in it and it's fine for that.
The ripcord system that is used in the other Zeagles has 2 pockets located in frount of the BC. It is a very stable system.

I already had a Ranger and bought the Scout as a light weight travel BC. It serves the purpose nicely and it's my first choice when I don't need much weight (warm water/no wetsuit). If I were to buy today and could buy only one I would opt for the Escape. It's a little more money but the much better weight intergration is worth it. As for the streamlining, there is a lot of talk about streamlining but very few facts. The added drag, real or imagined is very small compaired to all the other factors involved.

 

[ScottZeagle]

Great (and accurate) answer Herman...

You need a job??

 

[herman]

Expences paid equipment R&D !!

When do I start?

 

[scubawife]

I've had my Scout for a little over 2 years. I love it. I have side weight pockets as well as the trim pockets on the back. My LDS has their display model set up this way and sells them with the side pockets. It wasn't presented to me as an option. It's my understanding that any Zeagle dealer can customize any Zeagle BC for you, so couldn't any dealer order a Scout with side weight pockets?

(Please excuse my lame description, but I don't know all the technical names.)The side pockets I believe are the touch fastener release type. The black rectangle shaped pouch with heavy velcro fastner and a red handle goes into the pocket, then the pocket's flap goes down over the tab. If you pull the red handle and the weight pouch comes out of the pocket.

 

[halocline]

Thanks;
The thing that seems appealing about the scout is it's minimal size, no cummerbund, etc. I have a feeling that for tropical diving this could be really comfortable. How practical is it to add weight pockets on the sides? What sort of release mechanism do these have? Assuming I put 2 of these on, would they reliably handle 4lbs each if necessary?

I'll probably end up with the escape (on the slight chance that I don't win the "great zeagle giveaway") but if I could find a way to make the weight work on the scout, I have a feeling I'd kind of prefer it for warm water. Sure wish there was a way to try these two out in cozumel....

 

[ScottZeagle]

Matt,

If you are diving less than 14lbs total, the Scout will work fine for you. If you think you may need more weight, you can move up to the Escape, but for warm water diving the Scout will work just fine. The downside of the Scout is the lack of pockets, if you are a "pocket guy". However, if you have your dive shop order you one, we can add the utility pockets (like the ones on an Escape) for a small additional fee.

I have said many times that for the last 5 years the Scout was my personal BC of choice. Now that most of my dives are spearfishing, however, I have switched to the Stiletto. My next "recreational" trip to the islands, I will break out the Scout again!

Good luck in your search for the BC that is right for you!!

Scott

 

[Zeeman]

Just in regards to the Scout - how is it in cooler water (temperate, not tropical) say 17 - 21 degrees? I already have a Tech, and am thinking of getting a Scout for my overseas trips to tropical places (if I really need pockets, I'll just switch the bladder to the Tech) Just curious since it would be cool to be able to lend the scout to a friend when diving locally in summer rather than renting gear... Many people have suggested a Stiletto or Brigade, but remember, I already have a "big" BC, it's just for travel to warm places, and if it works in 17 -21 degree (C) waters, then it's a bonus...

Z..