Newbie looking for a first BC

[KingBiscuitBoy]

I am getting OW certified soon and am investigating gear. What do I need to think about when selecting a BC. I would be a new diver, 50 yoa, on the thin side of obese, diving in the Cape Ann Massachusetts area mostly. I thought a jacket style BC was what I wanted until I joined this forum and began reading posts. Now I have doubts about that.

[mixahl]

Start diving and try different BCs to get a feel of what would be comfortable for you....Zeagle is a major brand around here...

[Penguino]

The best thing that I did was to go to my LDS (Scuba Toys) after I got my c-card and they let me in their pool to try on different BCs. I spent about 2 hours trying on different BCs that they had their for their classes. If you could do that it would be a great cheap way to discover what you like and what you dont. I ended up with a Zeagle Brigade, by the way.

[abcitydiver]

some things to consider - since you'll be diving in cold water and either wearing quite a bit of neoprene or a dry suit, consider how you will be carrying your weights and how they integrate with whatever you choose.

Definately definately...try on as many different types, brands and styles as you can, and do try to get wet with them first. Enjoy!

[DOWNDEEP73]

Originally Posted by abcitydiver

some things to consider - since you'll be diving in cold water and either wearing quite a bit of neoprene or a dry suit, consider how you will be carrying your weights and how they integrate with whatever you choose.

Definately definately...try on as many different types, brands and styles as you can, and do try to get wet with them first. Enjoy!

I Agree!
Maybe you should just rent differant types-brands until you find what you like.

[Largo]

Ditto! I rented gear for a long time before I figured out what I wanted.

[EuphoriaII]

It seems that a lot of divers recommend something that is 'back inflate' or even a BP/Wing. Trying out a few is the best thing to do and see what YOU like. But keep in mind that how it works for you under the water is probably more important than at the surface. Back inflate BCs can be a little difficult to stay 'head up' at the surface until you get use to it and put some weight in the trim pockets but I find them great for staying horizontal under water.

[imasinker]

I would say rent some gear If you have that possiblity. As well think ahead, where you will go with diving. You may want something to advance with you. You need to be comfortable and confident while using It. I bought a great BCD zeagle Stiletto, great BCD mind you I love It, but it is for single tanks, and now I want a BP / Wing. I wasn't thinking about what or where I was headed with diving. It can save you some money! So think about the type of diving you'll be doing and have fun shopping.

[mixahl]

make sure to check out the zeagle brigade too....only at ScubaToys!

[harb99]

rent for awhile and try on as many as you can. when you are ready to buy, remember to check with ST's - they ended up sending me 3 bc's for the wife to try on and I just sent 2 of them back - they are very easy to work with