BP/W setup

[Venio]

I am new diver, 5 dives as of now. One thing that bugs me is the way my BC (Mares Vector Origin) is moving up my chest while diving. It is very uncomfortable to constantly pull the vest down. I have seen that the BP/W comes with a crotch strap. That is why I think backplate will be more rigid then any other BCD. I'm not planing to do any Tech/DIR just looking for more comfort in diving. Also, I am going to stick with a single tank for now. The problem is that since I'm inexperience I don't really know what to look in a BP/W setup, so I'm waiting on your suggestions.

Thanks!

I'm thinking Compudude will be the first to answer. LOL

[Lucky(AR)]

NO on the crotch strap not comfy at all ...had one ...maybe b/c a lil too big for you ?

[cummings66]

The DSS BP/W is what I have, Larry sells a good one here as well. It honestly doesn't make a huge difference, just decide what size wing you need and go from there. A 30 lb lift should be plenty for most divers by the way.
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<DIV>The crotch strap doesn't bother me much, you get used to it pretty quick by the way. Right now I'd say your BC is too big for you and that's why it slips up.</DIV>

[Venio]

Just to clarify, the BC is a bit small. I think it's my shape, round, that is. LOL Well, I'm not that round but i have some tummy sticking out that may have caused the problem.

By saying it doesn't make a difference, do you mean the BP will still move?

[Joew]

Cummings66, how do you like your DSS rig? I'm in the market for a BP/W, and so far they're on the top of my list. I'm thinking about a SS plate w/ hog harness and 26# Torus wing.

[somewhereinla]

I doubt the problem is the BC. It's either the size that's wrong for you or you are not wearing your bc correctly. Also your position underwater is probably wrong. Remember you need to be horizontal. You might also have to much weight which you compansate by adding to much air in your bc, you might want to do a buyancy check with an instructor or a dive master so that you can understand what the problem is and how to correct it.

[przeor]

I'll go ahead and throw this out- get a DR or Oxycheq plate,single tank adapter,a basic hog harness and an Oxycheq Mach V wing from Scubatoys! The Mach V is a sweeeet wing. You can't get any more streamlined than that! Pair that wil some of the scubapro style tank bands Scubatoys sells and you'll be in a great single set up. The Mach V hangs over the plate roughly an inch on each side. Joe and Larry can probably hook you up with a sweet package deal! I prefer the single tank adapter- something DSS doesn't use. It's personal preference, I don't knock the DSS set-up, I just prefer the other. Makes it feel more stable. I used to use a Venture wing without an STA, but much prefer the Oxycheq wing. Check it out!

[Judestudio]

Originally Posted by Joew

Cummings66, how do you like your DSS rig? I'm in the market for a BP/W, and so far they're on the top of my list. I'm thinking about a SS plate w/ hog harness and 26# Torus wing.

I dive the DSS with SS plate and 26# Torus [img]smileys/smiley2.gif[/img] Very nicely put-together rig. I like the idea of going STA-less, make things simpler and less weight to travel with. I also got a Kydex plate for use in tropical waters, even less weight to carry on the plane with. As far as I know, DSS plates have the flattest profile which places the tank closer to your back, I haven't dove with other plates before so wouldn't be able to tell if there is a significant difference in real life.

However, don't rule out the Oxycheq gear, they're head-to-head with DSS. Mach V wings are also one of the best out there. In a matter of fact, I've set my mind on getting a Mach V at the beginning, tried hard to figure out if that can go with a DSS plate, but no it'll be too much of a hassle. So went for the DSS gear for the simpler assembly and for the Kydex plate option.

As for the wings, I believe the Oxycheq Mach V has an even narrower profile than the DSS Torus / LCD. That being said, all are extremely streamline underwater and very easy to vent (gathering reviews from many people). Hope this helps.

[medic001918]

It sounds like your current rig might be too big, or it just doesn't fit your body type well. Both are possibilities. The nice thing with a BP/W is that it has an infinitely adjustable harness so you can make it fit just about everyone. For most diver's it causes an improvement in your trim, and you'll find that you can always expand it. Add to that and you can get a backplate in aluminum or stainless steel, and you can take weight off your weight belt if needed.
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<DIV>There are many good BP/W setups out there. I dive a halcyon, kristen dive's a Golem. Both good products, but the halcyon came a bit more "complete" (it came with the rubber bands on the harness, bungee cord to hold the inflater, small details). Both are good products. Check out dive rite, deep sea supply and oxycheq as well.</DIV>
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<DIV>The crotch strap is something that when it's sized right, you shouldn't even notice. It takes some time to get your BP/W adjusted for you, so plan on a learning curve and some time to make multiple adjustments. For many, it's a great improvement to their diving.</DIV>
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Shane</DIV>

[cummings66]

If you want to buy from Scubatoys then I'd buy the Oxycheq, it's a VERY good BP/W and you can't go wrong with it.
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<DIV>As to how I like my DSS rig, I love it and I can't see diving ever again without it. It's that good, BP/W's are IMO what diving was meant to be, the freedom you get is incredible.</DIV>