Time for a new BCD... please chime in!

[android]

Other than a torus bladder, I would second the Brigade. Then get the optional back pad.

 

[crpntr133]

I second the Brigade.

I think the pad is another $22 from Scubatoys. I didn't get it and personally think that there is plenty of padding. I did a review on the Brigade here on SB. There are also a couple of threads with info about it in them...do the search thing.

 

[archman]

Hey, wait a minute... what's an X-tek.

Ha ha, that's a slightly updated X-tek! They changed the "X" to an "S" (since it's ScubaPro), doodled a bit with the harness, and remarketed it.

I'm trying to avoid that model as I've come to realize that it's little more than an old TransPac I at 50% markup. The velcro adjusters on the cam bands have been a continuing nuisance... I suppose I could just have 'em replaced...

Naw! I want a new BCD!

 

[Scubakevdm]

Ha ha, that's a slightly updated X-tek! They changed the "X" to an "S" (since it's ScubaPro), doodled a bit with the harness, and remarketed it.

Hmm... I thought maybe it was for Scientists. Sorry. I'm just being silly.

BTW they fixed the crappy tank band configuration, and they are now adjustable from the outside.

 

[Mandy3206]

I switched to BP/W setup and I'm very happy with the diference, I dive only in tropical waters in the caribbean, but use a Fullbody 3mm for exposure protection.

OMS, Halcyon and others have BP Back Pads that may be very usefull if you need them.

Check the BP/W setup, I'm very glad I did.

My brother has the Transpack II, and is very happy with its performance, over 100 dives and not a glitch.

OMS also offer the IQ Pack, very similar to the Transpack II, I don't know if Halcyon offers a soft pack, Oxy cheq offer some models but I don't know their quality firsthand.

most important is that you're happy with your gear at the end of the day.

 

[frenchy07]

My first BC experience (other than the junk in the pool doing training) is with the brigade. So far I love it.

First set of dives I dropped from 30 lbs (instructor thought I would have trouble being negative) to 16 lbs (pair of 6's in the back trim pockets and 2 lbs each in the weight pockets (i'm 5'11", as of today 295 lbs and wear a 3 mil hyperstretch). Tomorrow I'm playing with just the pair of 6's in the trims.

Last time in the pool I toyed with just 10lbs (5 each in the trims) and had some trouble being negative with a full tank so I'm figuring a couple more lbs will do the trick.

In 4 dives I trimed myself to the 16 lbs I mentioned, was very comfy everywhere (except where I found 0 vis) and had a blast. The Brigade packs into a very small spot and the Ranger harness will allow me to hang a bigger bladder onit if I choose.

Just my 2 pennies worth.

Brian

 

[Morg_NZ]

My trusty, beat-up X-Tek needs to be replaced. Here are my requirements. No, I don't plan on ever using doubles... I'm no tech diver, just a scientist.

1. Back inflation (with a torus-type bladder that won't trap air)
1b. Teeny tiny bladder rated no more than 30lbs.
2. TWO cam straps
3. SS D-rings
4. Weight Integration
5. Back/hip padding (I usually don't wear exposure suits)

So far I'm eyeballing the highly rated TransPac II, and the new Oxycheq O-Pac. Some of Zeagle's stuff maybe, like the Escape and Scout. Backplates probably won't do well with me as I do a lot of Caribbean diving with naught but a rashguard on. A large metal plate with no padding... ow!

With the TransPac, I've got an option for either the Travel Wings or the new Venture Wings. The Travel Wings look like a better design (more round), and they're more compact too. I honestly can't figure out the advantage to the Venture Wing.

Scubapro Glide 2000..............!!!!!!!!

 

[Aussie Diver]

I'm also looking at buying a transpac 2 and a rec wing. For the moment it'll be just for a single, but is it possible to use doubles on this?

 

[drmobil2002]

I use a Genisis Recon and love it. It has more lbs of lift than you need, but it is a very comfortable BC with lots of steel rings and connections for accessories. Everything on the BC is adjustable to compensate for a couple sizes. I got it for $350 brand new at www.leisurepro.com and it is over $500 in local shops.