It's decision time and I want your help.

[coralcrazed]

So, its been months that I have been trying to narrow my search on some equipment that I want to buy. So many people have helped me get to this point so thanks to all those that offered their expertise and thanks to ST for this form. So now its crunch time....

I do have a budget (I wish I didn't). so I have to decide from the following. I dive exclusively warm water on vacation. I dive mostly for the creatures and critters down deep. I also dive because I love to... I dive mostly in depths of 40-60-90 feet. I have gone down to a fairly shallow wreck at 100 feet and thought that yea it was cool but... not what I dive for. I'm one of those guys that sticks his head in crevices to see whats inside or what will pop out to say hello.

Here is the equipment that I have so far:
-Henderson 3mm shorty front zipper for easy don and doff
-Mares quatro fins
-Titanium Jack knife with point (yup I like big toys that scare most other people)
-Zeagle ebon mask with zeagle snorkel
-Tusa duffel bag
-blue reef Booties (LP brand-I know booooo!)

Here is what I need:
-a BC
-a computer
-a reg
-an octo
-low pressure inflater
-gages

Anyway, please use the below number and letter system and vote with recommendatins/comments. For example you amy say you like 1A, 2B, 3C 6 would be a yes or no ect. Here is what I have narrowed the selection down to... links are to the items on ST of course:
1. The BC
A.the zeagle brigade BC. I think I'm gonna love this thing but you can't have the trim weights between the pockets and the bladder or other accessories in this area. You can still get the trim weights (seen here http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detai...rweightpockets but go on the tank. here is the brigade bc:
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...=ZeagleBrigade
or
B. the Zeagle Ranger LTD this one you can get an array of accessories as needed in the future. Its also the BC that I physically tried on in a LDS which has a couple of extras built into it. If you've ever tried one of these or have one you know how comfy it is and how awesome looking it is to.
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...D=RangerLTDpkg

2. The octo:
A. I'm considering getting the sherwood Gemini octo put on one of the above BC's which will be more streamlined and will eliminate a hose to a separate octo.
http://scubatoys.com/store/search_re...herwood+gemini
if not the above than
B. I am considering the mares viper octo
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...T_ID=ViperOcto

3. the regulator:
A. this one came highly recommended as it has the adjustability... I'm still trying to determine if its really needed
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...ID=EnvoyDeluxe or
B. I can get the basic model zeagle rezort
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...ezortRegulator

4. Now I'm gonna jump to the computer
A. I have been looking to get, the oceanic GEO
http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detai...=GEOWristwatch
or
B. the oceanic atom 2.0 which has a wireless transmitter which will also streamline you down and eliminate the need for any other gages as it reads your tank pressure
http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detai...tom2.0Computer

5. if I get the above Geo I will need an analog pressure guage and these are the ones I'm looking into.
A. tusa Gage where I can get the SPG and a compass to boot.
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.asp?product_id=SCA210
B. tusa Gage where I can get an SPG and a secondary analog depth Gage. remember that the wrist computer will show you the depth but I figure that not only is it a backup but it also is kinda convenient when on the dive and checking both the air and depth at the same time on the same console. this one also has a nice back light
http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detai...ID=TusaSCA230T
C. another tusa model with two gages and redundant depth.
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=SCA230
D. lastly this super tiny SPG and temp in one by oceanic.
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...cPressureGauge

6. Lastly if budget allows, I'm considering getting the Oceanic v16 split fins. this would be an upgrade (i think) to my mares quatros. I will also be purchasing the spring straps with these. these things are just plain and simply evil looking
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...OceanicV-16Fin

woooooo that was alot. I'm sure I lost my audience after that long description. If you are still with me than I know that you are as crazy as I am... so, here is what I would like from you... take a look at the above and let me know if you have any personal experience with any of the above good or bad.. than tell me what you recommend I go with out of the list above. You may want to suggest another item altogether. Maybe you see something that I need that I did not indicate. please offer your view point on things as its very valuable to me. I do appreciate it and any info would be great even just to say. hey man you lost it!



thanks

[Zenagirl]

My husband tried on the Stilletto, Ranger, and Ranger LTD and really loved the extras and comfort of the LTD, so he went with that. I'd strongly suggest you buy the one that you like because one thing is sure, you can't go wrong with Zeagle.

I've been diving with a Zeagle Envoy reg/octo combo for years and LOVE them. Started with the Vyper as an octo and it breathed a little wet and a little harder than I liked so quickly sold it and switched to an Envoy octo., which isn't any different than a regular Envoy reg.

As far as fins are concerned, I really think you should try both the paddles and the splits in the water to choose. For instance, a split fin is NOT an upgrade for me as my kicking style is not compatible with them and they wind up feeling like floppy noodles on the ends of my legs. I wouldn't use splits if they were given to be free and gold plated!! That said, I dive with Jetfins, and they give a lot of people cramps (they don't carry the nickname "bricks" for nothing!), but they are nearly the perfect fin for me, though I sure wouldn't recommend that anyone buy Jets without trying first either.

But you asked about Quattros, so my husband has the Mares Quattro fins and loves them! They have good maneuverability and power. I likely would have bought them too but they didn't come in a small enough size for me.

I prefer an AI computer since I want all of my information in one place, but ultimately the computer has to be a soul searching choice for everyone IMO.

Whatever you buy, remember that if it fits you well, functions well, and YOU love it, it's the right gear.

[Aussie]

1. The BCD.
Good choice with Zeagle both the Ranger LTD and Brigade. I think the brigade over the Ranger LTD as it has a smaller wing which is more streamlined. I you think the LTD looks awesome have a look or try dive a Zeagle BP with 34lbs wing as another option for you. Its actually lot more comfortable than it looks and it feels alot better on than the Zeagle BCD's. Or you can buy a Zeagle BCD (Brigade)with the 34lbs all elastic wing and then change to a BP down the track.

2. The Octo.
I would stay with the Zeagle on this. Zeagle octos are great. I wouldnt bother with a inflator based octo as they normally breath like crap. Loosing one hose doesnt do much to being streamlined. Zx octos are the same as the primary reg from the Envoy deluxe.....breathes really well.

3.The Reg.
Since you like the Zeagle gear well stick to it. I would suggest the Envoy deluxe or DSV if in cold water.

4.The Computer.
I would avoid the AI and the issue with loosing another hose. I would still have a good brass glass analogue SPG. If you still go with AI computer I strongly recommend a SPG as a backup. I also recommend a wrist computer and maybe have the computer attached with bungee cords for some extra safety. Maybe look at something a Suunto Vyper wrist computer or maybe a Suunto D6.

6. The fins.
I would stay with the fins you have. They are great fins and not a upgrade as you may think. By all means try splits, its a very personal choice and what works for you is most important. Stainless steel spring straps are the best thing for your fins I highly recommend them


Hope this Helps,

Aussie

[crpntr133]

You really don't need the extras of the LTD. If you want it, buy it. I own two Zeagle BC's and love both of them.
The rest of it looks good. As for the SPG, I like the smaller ones. With a wrist computer you don't really need the temp in the gauge since it is on the computer. I would still go with a SPG even if I went with the wireless computer. Just a piece of back up and the "streamling" isn't going to kill you...it's a hose and a gauge.

[divinginn]

if you do any flying,the ranger is rather large,i would also stay with the zeagle regular octo,the envoy is supposed to be a great reg,would buy a simple wrist mount nitrox computer.

[Theepdinker]

For what it's worth, here's what I would prefer from your list.
1a gets the job done for much less.
2a same reason you stated, one less hose & streamlined.
3b adjustable 2nds are much more comfortable to me, even at recreational depths, which is all I dive.
4a $500 less than b, nuff said.
5a only option with a compass. I use my compass a lot, you may not.
Have to say I dive a 3 gage console with a computer in it.
Can't forget your computer that way.
Clip it to you, don't let it dangle.
6 I really like my splits.

Theep

[quasimoto]

Originally Posted by coralcrazed

1. The BC
A.the zeagle brigade BC. I think I'm gonna love this thing but you can't have the trim weights between the pockets and the bladder or other accessories in this area. You can still get the trim weights (seen here http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detai...rweightpockets but go on the tank. here is the brigade bc:
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...=ZeagleBrigade
or
B. the Zeagle Ranger LTD this one you can get an array of accessories as needed in the future. Its also the BC that I physically tried on in a LDS which has a couple of extras built into it. If you've ever tried one of these or have one you know how comfy it is and how awesome looking it is to.
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...D=RangerLTDpkg

2. The octo:
A. I'm considering getting the sherwood Gemini octo put on one of the above BC's which will be more streamlined and will eliminate a hose to a separate octo.
http://scubatoys.com/store/search_re...herwood+gemini
if not the above than
B. I am considering the mares viper octo
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...T_ID=ViperOcto

3. the regulator:
A. this one came highly recommended as it has the adjustability... I'm still trying to determine if its really needed
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...ID=EnvoyDeluxe or
B. I can get the basic model zeagle rezort
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...ezortRegulator

4. Now I'm gonna jump to the computer
A. I have been looking to get, the oceanic GEO
http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detai...=GEOWristwatch
or
B. the oceanic atom 2.0 which has a wireless transmitter which will also streamline you down and eliminate the need for any other gages as it reads your tank pressure
http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detai...tom2.0Computer

5. if I get the above Geo I will need an analog pressure guage and these are the ones I'm looking into.
A. tusa Gage where I can get the SPG and a compass to boot.
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.asp?product_id=SCA210
B. tusa Gage where I can get an SPG and a secondary analog depth Gage. remember that the wrist computer will show you the depth but I figure that not only is it a backup but it also is kinda convenient when on the dive and checking both the air and depth at the same time on the same console. this one also has a nice back light
http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detai...ID=TusaSCA230T
C. another tusa model with two gages and redundant depth.
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=SCA230
D. lastly this super tiny SPG and temp in one by oceanic.
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...cPressureGauge

6. Lastly if budget allows, I'm considering getting the Oceanic v16 split fins. this would be an upgrade (i think) to my mares quatros. I will also be purchasing the spring straps with these. these things are just plain and simply evil looking
http://scubatoys.com/store/detail.as...OceanicV-16Fin



thanks

I agree that you don't "need" the Ranger maybe you have a reason for it. I know it can be used for doubles thought it isn't the best way. Also you could use the wing on doubles with a Zeagle plate. The Brigade might be able to as well but i would like the extra lift.
Go with the Envoy for the reg. First stage makes more of a difference than anything.
Splits, you can have them. If you ever go dry you will probably want your quators. Spring straps are a great idea.

[jwdizney]

Originally Posted by Aussie

1. The BCD.
Good choice with Zeagle both the Ranger LTD and Brigade. I think the brigade over the Ranger LTD as it has a smaller wing which is more streamlined. I you think the LTD looks awesome have a look or try dive a Zeagle BP with 34lbs wing as another option for you. Its actually lot more comfortable than it looks and it feels alot better on than the Zeagle BCD's. Or you can buy a Zeagle BCD (Brigade)with the 34lbs all elastic wing and then change to a BP down the track.

2. The Octo.
I would stay with the Zeagle on this. Zeagle octos are great. I wouldnt bother with a inflator based octo as they normally breath like crap. Loosing one hose doesnt do much to being streamlined. Zx octos are the same as the primary reg from the Envoy deluxe.....breathes really well.

3.The Reg.
Since you like the Zeagle gear well stick to it. I would suggest the Envoy deluxe or DSV if in cold water.

4.The Computer.
I would avoid the AI and the issue with loosing another hose. I would still have a good brass glass analogue SPG. If you still go with AI computer I strongly recommend a SPG as a backup. I also recommend a wrist computer and maybe have the computer attached with bungee cords for some extra safety. Maybe look at something a Suunto Vyper wrist computer or maybe a Suunto D6.

6. The fins.
I would stay with the fins you have. They are great fins and not a upgrade as you may think. By all means try splits, its a very personal choice and what works for you is most important. Stainless steel spring straps are the best thing for your fins I highly recommend them


Hope this Helps,

Aussie

WHAT HE SAID..

[mdwestgrl]

The only thing that I am going to make a suggestion to is the Octo. I have a sherwood integrated Octo and I love it for the reason of loosing one more hose. The only thing is that you have to make sure that your primary reg is on a hose that is long enough to donate. Mine is on a 40" hose.

My octo is a Sherwood Shadow which I like because it is an inline octo. I do not think I would like one that is always one my inflator hose. So basically what inline octo means (incase you or someone else reading this does not know) is that it is on a hose but then coming off of that hose is a quick connector that you plug into your LP inflator just like you would any other LP inflator hose. That way if you want to dive another BC you can and you can use your own reg set up. If you have one that is alway attached that is fine unless you go on vacation and do not take your BC but you like to use your own regs and now you do not have a Oct.

Yes they do breathe a little harder than a normal reg but I have used mine at 40ft and my husband has used his at 90ft. (just trying them out) and the still work just fine.

My husband has since switched to a bungeed backup which I too think is a pretty good idea but I am going to stick to mine this way for now. It works for a backup and I do not have to worry about another hose or reg going somewhere I do not want it to.

[Aussie]

I prefer to have my Octo the same as my primary second stage. In other words I have the Zeagle Zx second stage as my primary and secondary (Octo).
The reason I prefer this is that I know that it breathes really well (even passed 200ft), its adjustable with venti blade lever and cracking pressure knob, they can be fine tuned to what you want it and it uses the same basic service kit.

I dont really understand the importance of loosing a hose here and hose there in some peoples idea of becoming streamlined. It doesnt make any difference when compared to size of BCD's and wings. Look at your kit underwater and see if actually looks streamlined.

I also suggest that correct hose lengths be used. Basically its not one sizes fits all. I would at your all your hoses and work out the best lengths of hose for you (even the inflator hose and HP) it just tidys things up alot.

Just my 5 cents worth...........we dont have 2 cents anymore

Aussie