Pricing... Zeagle Express Tech and Express tech Deluxe

[captainhook426]

I see the aluminum and steel back plates and i think they cannot be comfortable at all. I don't ever plan on diving with much more than a rash guard, maybe a 3,2 wetsuit. Is a metal back plate comfortable without any added padding, or even without a rash guard? Are the different parts interchangeable between manufacturers?

 

[fisheater]

I've never had any issues with metal backplates being at all uncomfortable, whether a drysuit, thick wetsuit, thin wetsuit or mere rashguard. Padding is simply not needed and only causes issues.

Most backplates will work with most wings. Check for specifics with the plate/wing combo you are interested in.

 

[captainhook426]

What specifics do I need to look at? Are there specifications and whole patterns that I can find?

 

[MRadke]

The only catch with the metal back plate is that it is not as portable. As nicely as my Ranger packs, I'll still be looking at an Express in the near future for ease of travel. I'll be seeing a rep from Zeagle on Monday and will lobby heavily to keep the plain jane version of the Express Tech in the line up.

Mike

 

[captainhook426]

So I'm thinking I could possibly build my own light weight, express tech or something similar if I buy the parts individually. If I use the express tech back plate and everything else separately, if that makes sense?

 

[diversteve]

DSS sells a Kydex (plastic alloy) backplate. It flexes slightly and is good for travel.
Although you may have to add weight pockets somehow as it may be too light.

https://www.deepseasupply.com/index.php?product=6

You can buy all the pieces of an Express Tech separately - harness, wing and soft backplate.

Zeagle Express Zeagle Backplate Systems Standard Stainless Steel Backplate Kit Deluxe Stainless Steel Backplate Kit Stainless Steel Backplate Anodized Aluminum Backplate Titanum Blackplate
Zeagle Express Zeagle BC Bladders 44Lb 360 Donut All_Elastic Bladder 50Lb Manta Wing Bladder Little Bertha Twin Wing BIG Bertha Twin Wing

Likely be cheaper to buy a Deluxe and strip off what you don't want though...

Check with Zeagle Express (Capt.Gene here on SB) also as I think there's a couple other smaller Zeagle wings available.

Or there's other options like: http://www.leisurepro.com/Prod/AEREXL.html which is what you seem to be trying to build. Aqualung makes one also. http://www.aqualung.com/us/content/view/430

 

[captainhook426]

Can I get some recommendations that may stay in the $300 price range? I really don't want to sink a ton of money into a bc until I get some experience.

 

[chrpai]

Can I get some recommendations that may stay in the $300 price range? I really don't want to sink a ton of money into a bc until I get some experience.

eBay.

Here's one: Halcyon Backplate and Wing | eBay

 

[diversteve]

DRIS has the original Express Tech for $261. Zeagle Express Tech | Dive Right In Scuba - Plainfield, IL
Scubatoys also: http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detail.asp?product_id=ZeagleExpressTechBCD

I think the Ziptouch or the Ripcord weight systems are around $100 more. But if you dive with someone on a trip, they'll often provide a weight belt at little/no cost. Or buy your own and take it with you - they're $10. A good soft weight belt is under $30.

One other thought - you might look at a ScubaPro Litehawk. It's a little nicer travel BC also - $359. http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=ScubaproLitehawkBCD They have optional weight pockets also.

One advantage the Tech has is that it will take doubles. Probably not really well though - a hard backplate is going to be better for that. Most people who travel never do. I bought a big wing once thinking I would be, it's been about 8 years and I never did.

Zeagle also sells(sold) a BC called the Wicked Lite Ranger. I'm pretty certain it's discontinued now also. It's a version of their $700+ Ranger modified for Travel - rolls up small. Scubatoys is selling them currently for $324 but it doesn't look like they're available in your size (no large) - I'm a lot bigger than you and I'm an XL in a Ranger. My buddy is 6'0 and dives a large Ranger. http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detail.asp?product_id=ZeagleWickedLiteRangerBCD Maybe you could find one somewhere else in your size.

 

[enduser]

Zeagle express has the minimal model as well you just have to poke around a bit for it. http://www.zeagleexpress.com/gear/BCDS/Zeagle BC Accessories/Express Tech Kit.html

But it is a bit more at $276