Backplate systems, expensive or cheap?

DiverAnderson · Jun 27, 2003

I've read a number of articles on BCs that say backplates are typically cheaper than back inflate or jacket BCs. However, when I have priced a Halycon or Deep Outdoors system, they were expensive before I added weight integration and afterward were exorbinant! How do you BP divers get around this? Where would you go to build a good rig? Details would be especially helpful because this is not rhetorical, I actually want to do it.

Thanks!

Scubaroo · Jun 27, 2003

Get an aftermarket backplate and harness kit such as a FredT, Scott Koplin or Gary Hoadley plate - I don't know Fred's prices offhand (he is a user on ScubaBoard - PM him and ask), but Gary sells on eBay as gfh3, and has aluminum backplates and harness kits for under $100. That includes slots for a Halcyon wing.

Then you need a wing - either buy a new one from Halcyon, pick up a used one on eBay, or wait for the new Oxycheq or OMS single tank wings.

Use a weightbelt, or pick up a used ACB20 system from eBay (the ACB30 is way bulky).

Or just buy the whole lot from eBay - there's often full rigs either new or used on there.

Big-t-2538 · Jun 27, 2003

I am going to get a Fred T plate....he has a whole list of prices...and he makes a ton of different plates and accessories.

Then I am probably going to get a 27# halcyon pioneer from Fifth D....

The webbing and hardware I'll either get a reefscuba or lowes or a climbing stor or somewhere......

Of course, I have a house I'm closing on in August, so I am kind of gun-shy on spending $$ I know I might very well need at the time being and this purchase could get pushed off to tax-return time.

mad1 · Jun 27, 2003

I am in the market for a plate and wing as well although I will only use mine for my doubles. I'll keep my back inflation bc for singles which should eliminate the need for two wings. With the weight of my 95's I think I can get away with an aluminum plate??
I've looked at most rigs including OMS,Abysmal'Halcyon,and most induviduals making their own and honestly DiveRite seems to have have a pretty good set up at a reasonable price. Does anyone have any Comments or experiences?thanks!

FredT · Jun 28, 2003

mad1 once bubbled...
With the weight of my 95's I think I can get away with an aluminum plate??
Does anyone have any Comments or experiences?thanks!

PM me with your e-mail address for info on buoyancy setup calculations.

FT

globaldiver · Jun 29, 2003

I can highly recommend a Fred T plate. I dive a SS BP from him and have ordered one in aluminum. When you order, get a finished one since he does a very good finish job. It is not that much extra and it will save your webbing over time.

I buy the webbing kit from Halcyon, but I think Fred also sells a webbing and D-ring kit.

Once I started to dive with a BP/Wing setup, I see no real reason to dive any other configuration. It is very comfortable.

sincerely

Anders

Zerogravity · Jun 29, 2003

BP/Harness is definitely the way to go. Comfortable, relatively inexpensive when compared to traditional BC's, infinitely adjustable, flexible and streamlined.

Backplate systems, expensive or cheap?

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