ZEAGLE 911 V.S BP/W

Can you push me into a direction of used bp/w's. Iv'e seen some on ebay, diver supply, dris, lesiure. But not a whole lot of them.

 

marketplace on here
Classifieds: BCD's and Weight Systems

 

Try northeastscubasupply.com. Click on used gear tab. They always have a bunch of options and it changes frequently.

I started using the Hog Total Buoyancy Control System earlier this year. Love it. It has the option of adding weight pockets if needed.

 

Everyone I know that has dove the ripcord weight system hates it.

Thigh pockets are much more convenient, have you ever tried to get something out of a bcd pocket while diving? Either glue them on your wetsuit or buy a pair of tech shorts. Orrrrrrrr Deep Six is clearancing out their Wetsuits, they have two large pockets on the thighs already. Hands down the best deal on a wetsuit out there. What all do you expect to carry in these pockets?

There are also quick release weight pockets for a wing setup as well.

The thing about a BPW is that you customize it to you. Need more d rings? No problem. Want fixed, offset, welded, d rings...they have those too. Want a pocket on your belly strap for a whistle, small knife, and trauma shears, so you can be cool like me? Dive Gear Express is just a few clicks away.

My setup is not like anyone else's. Anyone else's setup is not like mine. I generally dive with 8 pounds or less so I just have some Velcro weight pockets that mount upside down on my waist belt, back toward the wing. If I need more weight, I just use hard weights on my cam bands or use trim pockets.

A BPW will grow with you, the 911 is what it is forever. Chances are you will redesign your set up multiple times, even after you think it is perfect. Blow a wing? Replace a wing. Break a strap? Replace the webbing. On a bcd, there are very few repairs possible without sending it in.

That being said, I don't really care about brands. I prefer a wing with the hose offset to the left shoulder so it doesn't hit my reg. I also prefer the "delux" type shoulder straps with the quick releases...but im old.

My "goto" rig I use is a Transpac with a Dive Rite rec wing, 2 raised d rings on each shoulder strap, a fixed d ring on each hip, and a belly pocket on the waist strap. Buckle off to the right. 1 inch crotch strap. Two Velcro weight pockets back by the wing on the wrist strap that I think will hold 5 pounds each. Trim pockets if necessary or just add weight to the cam bands. Lights go on shoulder d rings and secured with a loop. Dsmb and reel go on right rear d ring on transpac or in a thigh pocket.

I also have a Transplate set up similar with a Hog 23? pound wing.

Deep 6 has great gear at reasonable prices for new. Northeast Scuba Supply had Transplates on sale a while back for like $70 or so. That's where mine came from. Dive Gear Express has all kinds of hardware, great service, and great prices. They are also in Florida so might be close to you. Piranha Dive Gear has lots of hardware too.

For used gear, I'm sure Florida has dozens of used gear groups on Facebook. Craigslist is worth checking too.

Get the BPW, you will thank us later!

Good luck,
Jay