I do agree DSS is a high quality produce. But I do found your reply biased, many points are inaccurate. I have 3 wings now, Oxycheq, DSS, Halcyon, one each. Here is what I have to say.
This isn't true. DSS 22u vs Oxycheq 26.5u.
It is hard to say which is toughtest. But based on the outter shell thickness, Oxycheq Signature V fees tougher but less flexible. Oxy wing retains it shape better even when the wing is empty. Not for DSS
Fast draining mesh at the bottom vs. grommets.
All three of my wing has SS grommet. I use my Oxycheq the most, no sign of corrosion after 2 years.
The DSS OPV is much better that the (sourced from ???) that everyone else uses. The ones that were all recalled for bad springs. I put a DSS OPV on my Oxycheq.
This is BS. I haven't encount any SS buckle that gives me problem, including no brand plain SS buckle from DGX.
This is also inaccurate. I would say DSS wing's cut is more inline with H, HOG. They all can be folded flat. Oxycheq has a very different cut, more 3D. It cannot be folded flat. And because of Oxycheq's special cut, it is the most streamline wing. But I also suspect it may not be the easiest to vent.
The inner bladder of my DSS wings is properly sized to the outer shell. My Oxycheq seems to be a 55 lb. bladder stuffed inside of a 40 lb. shell. There are other posts here describing the same.
DSS, Dive Rite, HOG are about the same flatness. OMS and H have higher degree of band. This is strictly a personal preference. Flatter plate put the tank closer to one's body. I found it is abit too close. My head hit 1st stage. I much prefer a steep band of my OMS over my DiveRite
So as HOG and Oxycheq. I do agree that DSS mounting mechanism is better than other that I have.
DSS plates come in a few different lengths, and the have the molded in rubber pieces which mean you don't need to use tri-glides to lock in your webbing adjustment.
So as many other. The only over stiff crotch strap is from DiveRite.
Again, I do agree DSS makes high quality product. I have no problem recommanding it. But to say DSS is the king, others are crap is a unfair statement.
To me DSS's advantages over other are these:
1)Tobin's knowledge, support and service
2)Different size backplate if that is what you need.
3)ability to add weight on to the plate, especially if you dive in cold water.
4)the wing attachement mechanism allow you to take wing off without rethreading tank band when not using STA
Thanks. You pretty much covered it for me. My computer farted and I lost my post.
The plates with a deeper profile allow me to carry my DSMB between the plate and my back. the flatter profile plates I need to carry my DSMB under the plate. That's about it.