Need help deciding on bcd's

[danielh03]

Hey all, been a while since I have been around to post but I gotta question. I have been diving a Riptide zone 1 for about a year now, and its a functional bc but no room for upgrading to doubles later on. Also, I want something that sets on the shoulders a little better for me to. I stopped by my LDS and he recomended the Outrigger by Oceanic. It looks good and feels comfortable and the price he offered me for it being its last years mod was great. Does anyone have any experience with this particular BCD?

[warscout2]

i try a lot of bcd's and i would say go with a Bp and wing. or if you want a upgradeable "true bcd" go with the ranger. I love my ranger.

[Zenagirl]

Oceanic makes a quality product, so I'd say if the BC is upgradeable to doubles, fits you well, and is at a price you're happy with...go for it!!

The Ranger is definitely an excellent option for doubles, but if you're thinking of going more into technical diving, you may want to look into a Backplate and wing configuration as that is more "normal" for tech diving.

[MSilvia]

If you really want something good for doubles, in my opinion a backplate and wing is the only sensible option. While other BCs "can be" used with doubles, BP/W is ideal for it, and is still a pleasure to dive with singles.

Originally Posted by Zenagirl

if you're thinking of going more into technical diving, you may want to look into a Backplate and wing configuration as that is more "normal" for tech diving.

That's not a reason I'd recommend switching to BP/W. Don't do it because you've heard it's "normal" for tech divers. Do it IF you understand why tech divers prefer it, and agree that those reasons are compelling. Otherwise you're switching on faith, and if you're going to dive doubles, you'll want to know the "whys" behind your equipment choices.

[GIFFMANN]

Have to agree with MSilvia. If you plan on heading towards doubles, just get a BackPlate with Wing. You'll be much happier with a setup like that, even for singles. Very versatile and comfortable.

At best, a standard BC with doubles is a compromise.

[Defman]

Appears to be a Ranger clone for the most part. If it's comfy to you & the price is right then why not?

[dannybot]

Not familiar with the Zone I, but the Zone II can accept a backplate for doubles. My wife has one and really likes it.

[James1010]

I would say go ahead and used both. Find out which one works best for you, it is the only way. Take the gear to a pool and test it out. That is what I would do.