Zeagle Brigade question could not find answer.

[sasscuba]

I have been diving for 25 years since I was 12 and have owned many jacket BC's. I have read so many posts on the Zeagle Brigade and it sounds like a great BC. Does anyone that owns one have any trouble with it pushing you forward on the surface or underwater from it being back inflated? What about times when I go to Cozumel and do some great drift diving? I like to remain vertical when doing drifts...can it be done with the brigade?

Is the Zeagle Brigade the best BC Zeagle has? I am very hesitant about buying a back inflated BC but it does look like it would be more comfortable and a BC with a lifetime warranty sounds great!!


Any help is much appreciated...thanks Scott.

 

[cfelliot]

Putting 1/3 of my total weight in the optional back (non-dumpable) pockets helped me! I've put even more (2x4# rear 2x5# front) at times.

 

[khacken]

I just purchased a Brigade last week and I have done three dives in it. It will push your face into the water if you only put weights in the front pockets. However, if you purchase the trim pockets for the back, you can overcome this issue. Most people suggest putting 40% of the weight in these pockets. Also, you will need to lean back a little on the surface. It may seems a little strange at first, but after you dial in the weight, and get used to the lean on the surface, it is not an issue.

I actually like floating on my back on the surface, it makes surface swims more enjoyable, easier, and relaxing.

For drift dives, this is where having the weight right becomes important. If you put too much in the trim pockets, you will tend to roll backwards if you try to go vertical.

This might seem like some effort, but it only takes a dive or two to dial it in. Also, once you have it on and use it in the water, you will see what a difference it makes.

That said, back-inflate is not for everyone, and if possible, borrow or rent one a couple of times to try it out.

 

[ScubaMike05]

Yeah, put more weight in the rear pockets. It's a great BC and love it! I was hesistant because I've trained with jackets and I got talked into it by the peoples in this place and watch out for BP/W (backplate and wings) they will talk you to death about it! lol

Oh yeah, don't pull the ripcord! Re-threading it is a pain!

All in all, it's a great BC. You can't go wrong, either way you go.

 

[herman]

In addition to the trim weights, you need to avoid over inflating the BC at the surface. In a jacket you can pump it up and float head up with your head a good bit out of the water. If you try it in a back inflate it will push you forward. Put just enough to keep your head out of the water OR inflate it a bunch and ride it like a raft.
As for your attitude in the water, if you are properly trimed you should be able to hold any position in the water in any BC.
"Best" is subjective. Is the Brigade the heavest BC Zeagle makes or has the most D-rings/lift/whatever, no- is it the best for you, only you can determine that. Is it well made and would serve you for many years, I am sure it will.

 

[TxHockeyGuy]

I own a brigade and I love it. I only had a problem with the face forward on the surface when I didn't utilize my trim pockets or if I overinflate my BC when on the surface. When underwater I've never had a problem staying vertical when I've utilized the trim pockets. I did my certification in a standard jacket and then immediately bought a brigade. For me the brigade is much more comfortable. The only thing I have heard from others is that it takes a little getting used to not fealing the air as it goes into your BC. Since I basically started with the brigade I never had to deal with this. There is another benefit in going with the brigade as well, you can get a different size for the vest and the shoulders. If you're anywhere near Dallas you really should stop in have Larry fit you in one. I tried on one and thought it fit great, Larry thought the sizing was a little off so he swapped out one of the parts (don't remember which) and it was even better after that. Basically, I love mine.

 

[TheRedHead]

I have one, but I don't dive it much since I moved to a BP/W. I probably have 50 dives on it just in Cozumel. I assume you want to remain vertical on the surface in Coz? You shouldn't have any problem if you don't overinflate the bladder. The only thing I don't like about the Brigade - or any BC - is that the pockets are located over the weight system and it creates bulk in the front.

 

[djanni]

Stiletto here......... although not significantly different from the Brigade.

I suppose any time all the air is on your back there's going to be tendency to push you face forward. As others are indicating, if you're properly weighted, distrubute some of the weight to the rear and don't over inflate on the surface it's not a problem at all.

In rough seas with a strong surface current you'll need to learn to roll over on your back and use your snorkle. Again, easy as pie. Strong surface current and calm seas... just float along singing a song.

 

[TheRedHead]

In rough seas with a strong surface current you'll need to learn to roll over on your back and use your snorkle.

Roll on your back and use your snorkel? Do you have photos?

 

[Divingguy]

I have put about 15 dives on my Brigade. It is a GREAT BC! Very well designed, and well made. I agree with the above, if you use the trim pockets, and do not overinflate at the surface, you will not have any problem. The freedom of movement, and comfort underwater, are really nice. I like having lots of D-rings, and other attach points.
Tom