Zeagle Brigade or BP/W?

[Splitlip]

Originally Posted by bent

Thanks for the great input. It looks like I need to learn more about the BP/W option.

Hmmm .... Is this Hog Harness something I should get for my sweetie on Valentines day??
Hopefully she doesn't see this post.

Seriously, I do not know anything about the different harnesses. The only options I have really seen in stores were the jackets that give you that great squeeze. Most I have been to steer clear of back inflate except one guy that deals Mares and Bare. Keep the great info coming.

If you're getting a "great squeeze" you may be over weighted. As with any other tool, if one does not know how to use it, the blame goes to the tool. Ever hear about how a back inflate will face plant you. It will if you don't know what you're doing.

[lt.dan58]

It comes down to... WHAT WORKS FOR YOU... Im a new diver however my dive buddy is a very experienced diver with many dives and oceans under his belt (he traveled with his last job)... I like my Brigade he dosent... He likes his vest style... the guys and gals on here have a lot of great experience and advice that I have asked for and put into use.... however they/we are not you and therefore dont know what your going to like... one thing I have found out is that you can never have enough gear and if you do people are always looking for more... so buy one and if you hate it sell it and ill buy it ;-)

[lt.dan58]

oh and I talked to Joe from ST and he helped me with my decision on which BC would work for me... Joe and Larry know their stuff and will help you.... Joe and I talked for almost a month before I bought... give him a buzz explain your situation and let them help you out

[bent]

Originally Posted by Splitlip

If you're getting a "great squeeze" you may be over weighted. As with any other tool, if one does not know how to use it, the blame goes to the tool. Ever hear about how a back inflate will face plant you. It will if you don't know what you're doing.

I wouldn't say a "great squeeze" just the restrictive feeling of the jacket. I have only used rentals since the early 90s, so the comfort level is different with each model I use. My last rentals were ScubaPro and weren't half bad. You can call it lack of skill, but I call myself looking for the best option for me now that I am finally going to purchase gear. I mean, people are picky about small things far less meaningful than a life-support system.
I'm definitely lacking in tech diving knowledge, but I'm a fast learner. I'll be an advanced novice in no time.

[Tiptopperoo]

I had a Brigade for a year, did 500 odd dives in it, then switched to BP/W at the start of this year. Haven't look back. Trim is much nicer, weight distribution is much nicer. Don't miss the pockets or integrated weights. I got a Zeagle SS plate which is quite nice. Oxycheq Mach V 30lb wing which is great.

As for your reasons for going tech, they are very valid reasons and the reasons why most ppl go that way, don't write yourself off as a n00b just yet. Plenty of ppl dive BP/W recreationally only, so why limit yourself with jacket BCD?

Get into it and you won't look back!

[Chilkie]

Just buy both. Joe and Larry will love ya for it!!!