Wanting to get first backplate and wing.

[Mopar]

I was thinking of getting a Diverite SS backplate and standard harness with a Oxycheq wing with roll control. Will this make me a good rig? Thanks in advance.

[irishsquid]

I was thinking of getting a Diverite SS backplate and standard harness with a Oxycheq wing with roll control. Will this make me a good rig? Thanks in advance.
No, you will still be a human. :D

[PfcAJ]

I'm not sure if the cam-strap slots line up with that combo. I'd check that out before making a purchase (or use a single tank adapter).

[a22shady]

Diverite is a good company and makes a great product. While I have never dove with the Oxycheq wings I have heard several complaints about them. If your out looking for other (Halcyon / DSS / Diverite / Hollis / OMS/ HOG) All make excellent wings.

I believe Tobin (cool_hardware52) is the Owner of DSS and is usually around here on the boards if you had any questions about his wings.

[ronscuba]

I was thinking of getting a Diverite SS backplate and standard harness with a Oxycheq wing with roll control. Will this make me a good rig? Thanks in advance.

Yes, it's a good rig. I have the same combination except Diverite aluminum BP.

[irishsquid]

Hey Mopar, You know I will have to agree with Shady. Tobin will get you in the right setup for what diving you will do. His complete rigs are a great setup and you have seen my kit and know the quality of his stuff. Visit his site here on SB and read some of the threads and his replies.:)

[formula1mb@aol.com]

Here are some good packages, ~$410-$420 for the dive rite combo, $460 for deep sea supply:

Backplate and Wings - Backplate and Wing Packages -- Save Big!!!! - Northeast Scuba Supply (http://northeastscubasupply.com/store/backplate-and-wings/backplate-and-wing-packages-save-big-/cat_96.html)

[N2DeepInAz]

Yes, the Oxycheq wing will be just fine for your rig. I have a 58# dual bladder wing for use in most of my tech dives. It's always performed without issue. I have yet to have an issue with mine yet in a years worth of dives.

I've also got a dive rite SS plate. They work well together although I'm using mine with doubles and don't plan on doing any singles dives with either. I think you made a solid choice and your setup will be fine.

[Mattforester]

I like diving BP/wing, never dive a standard BCD again.

[Splitlip]

I'm not sure if the cam-strap slots line up with that combo. I'd check that out before making a purchase (or use a single tank adapter).

They will.

I have Dive Rite plates and Oxy wings, although I prefer t use STA's. I have 2 STA"s. One weighs 12 oz and the other 8 oz. They are < 1/8" thick, but make the rig soooo much easier to manage.

[buddhasummer]

I'm not sure if the cam-strap slots line up with that combo. I'd check that out before making a purchase (or use a single tank adapter).

They line up fine...

[LauraJ]

As someone mentioned, do take the time to at least look at the Halcyon Infinity system (Halcyon Infinity | Halcyon Dive Systems (http://www.halcyon.net/bc/single/infinity)) or with fewer bells and whistles the Eclipse (Halcyon Eclipse | Halcyon Dive Systems (http://www.halcyon.net/bc/single/eclipse))

I'd pretty much given up diving single tanks before i got a hold of an infinity system. with doubles was just 'easier' to manage all the things (weights covered by extra tank, canister light, etc..) putting it all on single tank just got bothersome for me (I simply can't wear a weight belt without KILLING my back and strapping/bolting the weights all over was less than ideal) but the combo of the weight pouches, the light retainer assembly, etc... in the infinity system made it all so 'simple' that i actually have gone back to enjoying diving a single rig again.

I know a bunch of people are gonna jump up and say i'm just being silly, and single tanks with bp/w is easy as pie, but it just never rode as well as doubles (for ME) till i started diving the Cinch harness/infinity BC combo.

[halocline]

I was thinking of getting a Diverite SS backplate and standard harness with a Oxycheq wing with roll control. Will this make me a good rig? Thanks in advance.

Excellent rig, not good. If you have not already done so, check with caveadventurers, they have great deals on this exact set up. The oxycheq plate is very similar to the dive rite, I'd get which ever one is less expensive. The whole set up, wing, plate, harness, cam straps, should be under $400.

[scuba_sirhc]

While I have never dove with the Oxycheq wings I have heard several complaints about them.


Were there complaints around? I have had mine and its the sleekest wing i've ever own and i certainly have no complains about them at all!

[wader]

If money is an issue, there are often used rig and pieces here on SB. I have bought several items and have been more than pleased with the quality and price of the items. If money is no object, then go new by all means. I am just saying...:dollar::dollar::dollar::dollar::euro:
I have heard a lot of good things about Oxycheq and DSS. DSS is a bit more money, but a good product with great customer service.

[halocline]

Diverite is a good company and makes a great product. While I have never dove with the Oxycheq wings I have heard several complaints about them.

I've never read or heard a single complaint about oxycheq wings. A while back Tobin, the owner of DSS, and Patrick, from oxycheq, had a bit of a tussle in an epic thread, but outside of it's entertainment value, nothing negative of any substance about the products was revealed. They're both excellent companies that make top notch wings.

[Mopar]

I looked at the Oxycheq wing and the DSS wing. Both look very similar to my untrained eye. Both have rollcontroll so I don't have to use a tank adapter. I guess which ever wing I can get the cheapest.

[irishsquid]

I looked at the Oxycheq wing and the DSS wing. Both look very similar to my untrained eye. Both have rollcontroll so I don't have to use a tank adapter. I guess which ever wing I can get the cheapest.
I have my DSS rig loaded in the truck. I'll bring it to work so you can look it over and try it on tomorrow. I can't comment on the Oxycheq "roll control", but I have experienced zero issues with the DSS. Heck, a STA isn't that expensive. I'd bet one of the guys in the machine shop or R&D could make a very dependable one at lunch. :eyebrow:

[Mopar]

I have my DSS rig loaded in the truck. I'll bring it to work so you can look it over and try it on tomorrow. I can't comment on the Oxycheq "roll control", but I have experienced zero issues with the DSS. Heck, a STA isn't that expensive. I'd bet one of the guys in the machine shop or R&D could make a very dependable one at lunch. :eyebrow:

Thanks Irishsquid I can always depend on you. And thanks to all of the other good people on the board. At this time it is looking I will be going with the Diverite stainless backplate with the Diverite basic harness with 2 in crotch strap. I am going to get the Oxycheq wing in time.

[Mopar]

Has anyone else noticed the Deep Sea Supply add at the top of this thread? I wander if it is just a coincidence?

[wide_open]

Sounds like a good setup to me.

Halocline, do you have a link to that thread between Patrick and Tobin? Sounds like good reading!

[mike_s]

Thanks Irishsquid I can always depend on you. And thanks to all of the other good people on the board. At this time it is looking I will be going with the Diverite stainless backplate with the Diverite basic harness with 2 in crotch strap. I am going to get the Oxycheq wing in time.


If you're buying new, and know what wing you want know.... buying them all together as a "package deal", you can get much better prices.


why? when sold as a package, dealers sell more items for more $$$ and can discount more. It also allows them to "skate" the issue of "per items MAP pricing" and sell/advertise them cheaper.

several dealers have a package of a basic hog harness, steel plate, a choice of a couple wings, etc for the $350-$399 range. Plus several add on options.


but compare that to the "advertised price" of basic Dive Rite wings (as an example) of starting price of $350 bucks.

so what I'm saying is, for just a small amount more, you can get the wing with it as a "package deal" to start with. Makes a LOT more sense to buy it now if you know what you want.

[Mopar]

For all those who have the Dive Rite plate and Oxycheq wing do you use a STA or is the roll controll wing all I need? I noticed Splitlip said he uses a STA. Is this a personal pref. or wiil I need one?

[ronscuba]

No STA. Works great.

[skyguy94]

This might be the thread :
Horseshoe v Donut (http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/buoyancy-compensators-bcs-weight-systems/120012-dss-wing-not-donut-discuss-8.html)

[Splitlip]

This might be the thread :
Horseshoe v Donut (http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/buoyancy-compensators-bcs-weight-systems/120012-dss-wing-not-donut-discuss-8.html)

LOL.

The thread that gave us the Mach V if I'm not mistaken.

Somebody told Patrick Duffy of Oxycheq that it was not possible to make a narrow donut with a zippered outer shell. So he made the MV prototype and the rest is history. Turned out to be a darned good wing.

[Splitlip]

For all those who have the Dive Rite plate and Oxycheq wing do you use a STA or is the roll controll wing all I need? I noticed Splitlip said he uses a STA. Is this a personal pref. or wiil I need one?

My STA is not weighted. It is only about an 1/8" thick. It keeps the entire package together for me and makes it easier to move my rig from cylinder to cylinder when boat diving.
Also keeps my trim weights from making the straps flop around when off the cylinder.

[skyguy94]

Yea, it was an interesting read. I have a Mach V in my closet, but I had no idea that it was inspired by a scubaboard debate.

[txapacheguy]

I just bought the package deal with the Mach V from these guys and have no complaints.

AL back plate w/ Oxycheq Hog Harness & Oxycheq Mach V wing [DROCpkg] - $375.00 : Cave Adventurers!, We will NOT be undersold!!! (http://caveadventurers.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=43_74&products_id=692)

I do not use a STA and do not seem to need one. The tank does not budge a bit with the cam straps provided in that package.

I went ahead and upgraded to the SS plate, which is a dive-rite clone I believe, and all the slots line up just fine between it and the wing.

I guess there are a few folks that do not like the customer service from oxycheq or the guys I bought my rig from. While I can't speak for the manufacturer, the shop (linked above) I bought my stuff from has been very friendly, informative, helpful, and competitively priced thus far...

[halocline]

Somebody told Patrick Duffy of Oxycheq ....

I thought Patrick Duffy was the guy that played Bobby on Dallas.

[knowone]

No. That was Patrick Duffy OF Dallas.

[Crush]

For all those who have the Dive Rite plate and Oxycheq wing do you use a STA or is the roll controll wing all I need? I noticed Splitlip said he uses a STA. Is this a personal pref. or wiil I need one?

I am a new diver. I have about 5 dives on my DiveRite AL BP/OxyCheq Wing with Dive Rite webbing and crotch strap - see here BackPlate and Wing Package reviews and discounts, Dive Rite (http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=BackPlate_Wing_Package) .

I did not get the STA and I do not appear to need it. Those cam straps are wicked - I did not feel the tank budge. However, I would add at least one sex bolt (aka book screw) to the setup for the following reason:

Your trim is affected by the gear placement on your back. The BP position is set by your webbing and crotch strap. The tank position is up to you - cinch it in wherever works for your. However, the OxyCheq Wing has slots that are a fair bit wider than the cam bands. Once you have a tank cinched in that doesn't matter as the tank keeps the wing from moving. During tank swaps the wing can slide up or down by about an inch or so if you don't use an STA - that can have a small effect on your trim. If you use a sex bolt to fasten the wing to your plate it will prevent this from happening. I just went to the hardware store and bought a stainless steel nut and bolt. I put the nut inwards, facing my spine, and sawed the bolt down to length with a hacksaw.

[Mopar]

Thank you to all the kind people who gave me very helpful advice for my new rig.

[Thalassamania]

I was thinking of getting a Diverite SS backplate and standard harness with a Oxycheq wing with roll control. Will this make me a good rig? Thanks in advance.Excellent gear, good choices. But there's other great gear out there, as has been mentioned. For example: I'm seriously looking at a HOG wing (http://www.edge-gear.com/Wings_s/104.htm) and HOG SS backplate (http://www.edge-gear.com/Back_Plates_s/105.htm).

[Lenaxia]

I just got a Hog 32lb wing for cheap off of someone over at CDF. Really looking forward to getting some dives in on it. If my deal for a diverite plate falls through, I'll also be getting a Hog plate as well.

I'm going to be all Hog! Gonna get their D1 1st and 2nd stages too for my new reg set!

[MarcHerm]

For all those who have the Dive Rite plate and Oxycheq wing do you use a STA or is the roll controll wing all I need? I noticed Splitlip said he uses a STA. Is this a personal pref. or wiil I need one?

I use a DR plate (S/S) with an oxycheq 30lb wing. The slots align perfectly and a STA is not needed, so I don't use one.

It is a very good setup that I can only recommend to anyone!

[irishsquid]

Excellent gear, good choices. But there's other great gear out there, as has been mentioned. For example: I'm seriously looking at a HOG wing (http://www.edge-gear.com/Wings_s/104.htm) and HOG SS backplate (http://www.edge-gear.com/Back_Plates_s/105.htm).
They do look good and priced decent to boot. Did ya notice the 38# wing pricing? I got a kick out of it.
List price: $249.99
Our price: $249.95
Now there's a price break. :D

[Thalassamania]

That's the HOG company website.:D

[couv]

I just bought the package deal with the Mach V from these guys and have no complaints.

AL back plate w/ Oxycheq Hog Harness & Oxycheq Mach V wing [DROCpkg] - $375.00 : Cave Adventurers!, We will NOT be undersold!!! (http://caveadventurers.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=43_74&products_id=692)

I do not use a STA and do not seem to need one. The tank does not budge a bit with the cam straps provided in that package.

I went ahead and upgraded to the SS plate, which is a dive-rite clone I believe, and all the slots line up just fine between it and the wing.

I guess there are a few folks that do not like the customer service from oxycheq or the guys I bought my rig from. While I can't speak for the manufacturer, the shop (linked above) I bought my stuff from has been very friendly, informative, helpful, and competitively priced thus far...


Same rig I got, no STA needed with my HP 100.....very happy with it and the customer service from Cave Adventurers.

c

[mike_s]

Excellent gear, good choices. But there's other great gear out there, as has been mentioned. For example: I'm seriously looking at a HOG wing (http://www.edge-gear.com/Wings_s/104.htm) and HOG SS backplate (http://www.edge-gear.com/Back_Plates_s/105.htm).


They do look good and priced decent to boot. Did ya notice the 38# wing pricing? I got a kick out of it.
List price: $249.99
Our price: $249.95
Now there's a price break. :D


That's the HOG company website.:D


As Thal pointed out, that's the HOG website. They do sell direct, but in order to not undercut (or price compete) with their authorized dealers, the stuff on their site is more MSRP priced.

most dealers have that 32pount wing that's shown for $249 for example around $199 MAP price.

[Lenaxia]

So I should mention for the OP that he should also beware of what he's buying if hes buying used. I just picked up a diverite backplate today and it does not have cam band slots. I knew that going into the purchase and will be getting an STA to go along with it which I can fine with.

Hell I didn't even know that diverite made backplates without cam band slots! But hey whatever.

[catone]

No. That was Patrick Duffy OF Dallas.

Maybe he's the man from Atlantis then! (haha, great memories)

[Splitlip]

So I should mention for the OP that he should also beware of what he's buying if hes buying used. I just picked up a diverite backplate today and it does not have cam band slots. I knew that going into the purchase and will be getting an STA to go along with it which I can fine with.

Hell I didn't even know that diverite made backplates without cam band slots! But hey whatever.

LOL. Yeah, my cave diving buddy got in a pissing contest with a buyer on EBAY when he sold a DR plate that had no slots. Fact is he had no clue what the buyer was talking about because he did know about the STA-less internet phenomenon. He dives doubles 99 % of the time.

Plates were developed for use with doubles. Although there were some plates with "two" sets of slots to be used with 2 pairs of straps (don't see to many though), the most effective way to carry doubles was to bolt the banded pair to the plate through holes eleven inches apart.

Then, to adapt the plate for singles, the most effective way was to bolt a STA to the plate. Halcyon plates and wings did not have slots either.

The internet phenomenon started I guess when the early STA's were 5/8 inch deep channels designed to receive lead ballast. Today there are many virtually weightless STA's in the 1/8 inch deep range.

However, it still seems to be a big deal to say "no STA required". As with doubles, the rigid application of a STA for single tanks is an advantage IMO.

In response to this internet phenom, I think all manufacturers have developed systems which "don't require a STA". yippee.

[fnfalman]

As the owner of both Dive Rite and Halcyon BPWs, I can't say enough about these out companies. Good products and excellent customer service.

[Mopar]

How will the Oxycheq wing connect to my Diverite backplate? I assume the tank bands will hold it or will it bolt or have snaps to help hold it as well? Also will I need a pad for the backplate? I prefer not to use one because Diverite to my knowledge does not have one that bolts on like other name brands.

[Splitlip]

Not sure what you mean. Unless you are making reference to the DSS buttons that hold the wing in position when slipping the cam straps through the wing.

I suppose the DSS buttons would work with an Oxy wing to hold it in postition..

If you want to go STA-less, it is much easier assembling the rig if the wing is stationary. Either bolts or buttons.

As I have said before, I think using a STA is better. Weight and thickness of light weight STA's is negligible. Focusing on going STA-less is a mistake in my opinion.

[Mopar]

Thanks Splitlip that is what I was referring to.

[irishsquid]

I personally haven't found myself ever needing a pad. The plate isn't really even noticeable to me when I'm wearing it.

[UnderSeaBumbleBee]

There is a Golem SS backplate with ring wing for sale for $350 in the classifieds. My dive buddy is selling all her gear. It only has a could of dive on it.

http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/classifieds-buoyancy-compensators-bcs-weight-systems/356957-sale-complete-setup-rarely-used.html

[halocline]

How will the Oxycheq wing connect to my Diverite backplate? I assume the tank bands will hold it or will it bolt or have snaps to help hold it as well? Also will I need a pad for the backplate? I prefer not to use one because Diverite to my knowledge does not have one that bolts on like other name brands.

The cam bands fit through the slots in both the wing and the plate; in this case they line up fine. You can use plastic (I like the plastic ones better) or metal "sex bolts" also sold by dive rite to connect the wing to the plate. They don't bear any load, they just keep it in place until you fasten the tank. You don't really need them, but it's a convenience. You do not need a pad.

A mach V wing on a dive rite plate is a very nice set up, you'll be happy.

[DaMaDo]

To bolt the wing to the BP, I use either 1 1/4 (part #93180A325) or 1 1/2 (part # 93180A330) "316" SS carriage bolts (http://www.mcmaster.com/#carriage-bolts/=9fljvt) with either these (http://caveadventurers.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=8_37&products_id=378) DSS delrin nuts or the Oxycheq speednuts (http://caveadventurers.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=8_37&products_id=378).

It also helps to have the little plastic retaining washers (http://www.mcmaster.com/#lock-washers/=9flgxn) (part #91755A230) that hold the bolt in place which makes it a lot easier to get the bolts through the STA/Wing/BP and it then holds the square part of the carriage bolt in the square hole of the STA which makes it easy to tighten the nuts. I take mine apart every dive to clean so it makes things easier.

[Mopar]

My new Dive Rite ss plate, harness and 2in crotch strap came today. It came with all ss d rings and keepers even had the sleeves to keep the harness from digging into the plate. Scuba Toys had the plate on sale for $89.00 and free shipping (the cheapest I can find new). I will get the tank straps and my wing at later date.
The only thing is I got it adjusted tonight and the straps that go under your arms hurts my arm pits (feels like the edge of harness digs in). I am afraid to loosen up the harness because when I get everything and dive it I don't want it to move on me. Any suggestions?

[Splitlip]

Better to be too loose than too snug IMO.

If it is too loose and "floats" on your body, what's wrong with that? Think about it.

if you are a hiker who worries about gravity, rubbing and abrasions, I get it...

Biggest mistake I see with BPW, is people getting them to tight.

[Mopar]

Thanks splitlip I will loosen it up some.

[Splitlip]

Yup. You can read the directions about plate placement and spacing behind the shoulder straps (one palm) but we are not all the same. It should not be so tight so as to hurt.

I am a big offender who wants everything tight like a skydive rig. (Brain fart. My friends who had trouble with biting and cutting rigs ARE skydivers.)

Anyway. Start out a little looser and adjust as needed.

[domeport]

Splitlip,
Where is this from? "They called themselves Guerrilla Divers.
Composed of elite divers with Macho mentalities, back when men were men, and FEAR was a lispy companion of the common Man. It was a time before insurance liabilities, lawsuits or beauracratic regulation of the "sport". Guerrilla divers didn't need "Buoyancy Compensator Vests". In fact, "Anyone who needs a BC deserves to drown" was a popular adage. Exploration and the Hunt came first, excitement and fun followed. Safety was the stepchild of fitness, good reflexes and a cool head.
This was a time of great Adventure."

Those were the days...

[Splitlip]

From here.

DEEP DIVE (http://www.sfdj.com/dive/deep.html)

Dan Volker's article. He is a regular here on the Board.

[Mopar]

I am now looking for tank straps for my backplate. I hope that is the correct name. I found these at a site Mike S sent me in a PM. Enclosed is a link for these. What would you suggest? I like it because the strap is not one piece.Meaning you don't have to slide the backplate over the top of the tank. Not that it is hard to do, but it seems like it would be easier to take the wing off and on.

Highland Millworks Hi-Tension Tank Cam Band w/ Quick Release (http://www.divesports.com/Highland-Millworks-Hi-Tension-QR-Tank-Cam-Band-p/hmw-hl201.htm)

[mike_s]

I am now looking for tank straps for my backplate. I hope that is the correct name. I found these at a site Mike S sent me in a PM. Enclosed is a link for these. What would you suggest? I like it because the strap is not one piece.Meaning you don't have to slide the backplate over the top of the tank. Not that it is hard to do, but it seems like it would be easier to take the wing off and on.

Highland Millworks Hi-Tension Tank Cam Band w/ Quick Release (http://www.divesports.com/Highland-Millworks-Hi-Tension-QR-Tank-Cam-Band-p/hmw-hl201.htm)


I would have bought these when I got some if I'd known they had quick disconnect buckles.

Not sure what you mean about taking the wing on/off. Maybe you mean the whole BP/W sliding up/down.

I think the quick disconnect would be a little easier than sliding two tight wet straps with rubber tank-band holders on them, over the top of the tank.


Here's the video from the above URL website.


3RMkwrfHdWc

[Mopar]

I would have bought these when I got some if I'd known they had quick disconnect buckles.

Not sure what you mean about taking the wing on/off. Maybe you mean the whole BP/W sliding up/down.

I think the quick disconnect would be a little easier than sliding two tight wet straps with rubber tank-band holders on them, over the top of the tank.


Here's the video from the above URL website.


3RMkwrfHdWc


I was just meaning in the case I needed to remove my wing from my plate. Unless I want never need to do this. I don't know if removing the wing is needed is it?

[mike_s]

I was just meaning in the case I needed to remove my wing from my plate. Unless I want never need to do this. I don't know if removing the wing is needed is it?


If all you do is dive single tanks, chances are you'll rarely remove it. To remove it you just take the cam straps out of the slots in the center of the back ridge.

should be able to switch out wings in a few minutes.


I don't think these would be any harder to change than regular cam straps. Like I'd said, if I'd known these had the "quick disconnect" I would have looked at getting them. I just didn't research it beforehand because I didn't know there was any big difference at the time.

[knowone]

Threading quickly properly cam buckles can get you lots of places and is great for man of action showing off.

And washing soaking drying clunking laying and storing separately extends life.

[LeadTurn_SD]

Threading quickly properly cam buckles can get you lots of places and is great for man of action showing off.

And washing soaking drying clunking laying and storing separately extends life.


Words to live by. Being able to quickly thread a cam buckle on a rolling dive boat separates the Mike Nelsons from the Mike Myers' of the diving world ;)

Best wishes.

[halocline]

If all you do is dive single tanks, chances are you'll rarely remove it. To remove it you just take the cam straps out of the slots in the center of the back ridge.


I take my single tank wing off all the time; it's easier to clean and store. You're right that it's no big deal just to unthread the cam straps. I have both the normal straps and the scubapro style, which don't have to be threaded like the normal ones.

[Mopar]

I take my single tank wing off all the time; it's easier to clean and store. You're right that it's no big deal just to unthread the cam straps. I have both the normal straps and the scubapro style, which don't have to be threaded like the normal ones.

I have looked online at Scubapro website and can't find the straps you are referring to do you or anyone have a link for me so I can check into these?

[halocline]

I got them at northeast scuba supply, but I just went to their website and they don't have them anymore. The scubapro ones are on their BCs, the ones I have are that style but not made by scubapro. I don't know where to tell you to find them.

[Splitlip]

I have looked online at Scubapro website and can't find the straps you are referring to do you or anyone have a link for me so I can check into these?

Stainless Steel Cam Latch Tank Strap reviews and discounts, Scubamax (http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=ScubaMaxTankStrap)

[Crush]

The only thing is I got it adjusted tonight and the straps that go under your arms hurts my arm pits (feels like the edge of harness digs in). I am afraid to loosen up the harness because when I get everything and dive it I don't want it to move on me. Any suggestions?

Mopar,

I am new to BP/w as well. Here are some of my mistakes/advice, in no particular order. Please forgive me if it is too rudimentary. It may be incorrect, but it is my best read on your situation:

1. Loosen off your shoulder straps by at least two to thee inches;
2. Keep your arms in front of you while you swim. Grasp one forearm with the other hand. This posture will "tighten up" your straps while underwater;
3. Tighten up your crotch strap so that your belt is pulled downwards. This will allow your shoulder straps to be extra loose when suiting up, but when your assembly (including crotch strap) are tightened up, the whole rig will stay solid on your back; and
4. If you don't already have a crotch strap, you might consider getting one.

[LauraJ]

another option with regards to threading/unthreading cam straps is actually using a single tank adaptor. if you are in need of more weight, you can even get a weighted STA (single tank adaptor)

(about halfway down the page)

BC System Weighting | Halcyon Dive Systems (http://www.halcyon.net/bc/acb)

[Splitlip]

I'm a believer in STA's.

I do not understand the issue people have with them. (internet phenom IMO). They can be had from < 8oz to > 6#. A great tool. I am a tropical guy so my STA's are ~ 1/8 inch thick and .5 to .75#.

Although, I plan to get a weighted STA for my Al plate.

STA's make it SOOOO much easier. I mean, we use bolt on cam bands for doubles, right? We could thread 4 cam straps through the plates, but that is silly.

I don't dive Halcyon, but they are a pretty respected manufacturer. Anyone notice all their single tank wings require STA's? Do you think GI3 and JJ know something. :)

[DaMaDo]

I'm with the STA crowd. I take my BP/W apart after each dive to clean everything. With the STA, I can take it apart in less than 10 seconds because I just spin two quick release nuts (http://caveadventurers.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=8_37&products_id=378) and the whole things comes apart. With the wing separated it makes it easier to put fresh water inside, splosh it around, and dump it a couple of times after each dive.

After messing with different weight configurations, I got the Halcyon weighted STA (http://www.diveseekers.com/Convertible_Weighted_STA_10_011_007_p/10.011.007.htm) and that has been the best option for me. I got the combo with the Halcyon cam bands and those made me realize how much I really like my Highland (http://www.divesports.com/Highland-Millworks-Hi-Tension-QR-Tank-Cam-Band-p/hmw-hl201.htm) quick release cam bands mentioned previously in this thread. I will be using the highland ones from now on.

I had also ordered these (http://www.scubatoys.com/store/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=ScubaMaxTankStrap) scubapro-style quick release cam bands but they seemed so flimsy to me that I didn't even try them and just returned them.

[Mopar]

Well I got my Oxycheq Mach V wing yesterday. I got the 30lb wing and it is not much bigger than my plate. I see how small the wing appears and wander if it is enough wing or not but I am sure it is. Thanks for all the input.

[TheYellowSubmarine]

Does anyone know if the Highland quick release SS cams will fit through the slots on a standard Halcyon STA? The slots are only *just* more than 2 inches wide, so I want to know how wide the clip part of the cam strap is...

thanks

[Mopar]

Can you not just unthread the strap through the buckle? I decided against these and went with the Diverite ones.

[buddhasummer]

Does anyone know if the Highland quick release SS cams will fit through the slots on a standard Halcyon STA? The slots are only *just* more than 2 inches wide, so I want to know how wide the clip part of the cam strap is...

thanks

I own the Halcyon STA although do not own the Highland cam bands but do not see any reason why they wouldn't fit as far as I am aware cam bands are all the same size i.e. 2". I think you'll be fine. Cheers.

*Just had a look at the Highland cam bands, do they not come apart? the webbing doesn't look sewn in, but cant be sure, looks like you could thread the band then attach the buckle?. good luck.

[TheYellowSubmarine]

I think the clip part may be sewn in, but the buckle isn't :-P Didn't think of that!

[Mopar]

Can you not just unthread the strap through the buckle? I decided against these and went with the Diverite ones.


*Just had a look at the Highland cam bands, do they not come apart? the webbing doesn't look sewn in, but cant be sure, looks like you could thread the band then attach the buckle?. good luck.


I think the clip part may be sewn in, but the buckle isn't :-P Didn't think of that!

Or read it from my post either.

[DaMaDo]

Does anyone know if the Highland quick release SS cams will fit through the slots on a standard Halcyon STA? The slots are only *just* more than 2 inches wide, so I want to know how wide the clip part of the cam strap is...

thanks

I own and use both frequently. Works like any other cam band.

If I knew how to sew, I'd put the quick release clip part on the halcyon cam bands so I could have their built in rubber pads too.

[Reef Wrecker]

I own and use both frequently. Works like any other cam band.

If I knew how to sew, I'd put the quick release clip part on the halcyon cam bands so I could have their built in rubber pads too.

Highland (XS Scuba) now includes PVC tank pads with the Highland QR Tank Bands. Mine were supposed to and didn't so XS Scuba's customer service shipped them to me for free.
You can also buy the Halcyon Octo Grip tank pads (http://www.diveseekers.com/Halcyon_Octo_Grip_for_2_Inch_Cam_strap_62_040_022_ p/62.040.022.htm) separately.

This topic was also discussed already here: Highland Tank Bands.... (http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/tanks-valves-bands/366727-highland-tank-bands-ss-cam-buckles-halcyon-sta.html)

[coralcruiser]

Highland (XS Scuba) now includes PVC tank pads with the Highland QR Tank Bands. Mine were supposed to and didn't so XS Scuba's customer service shipped them to me for free.
You can also buy the Halcyon Octo Grip tank pads (http://www.diveseekers.com/Halcyon_Octo_Grip_for_2_Inch_Cam_strap_62_040_022_ p/62.040.022.htm) separately.

This topic was also discussed already here: Highland Tank Bands.... (http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/tanks-valves-bands/366727-highland-tank-bands-ss-cam-buckles-halcyon-sta.html)

The halcyon octo grip pads sure look like the DSS ones.... but are actually $3 cheaper!

Imagine... a halcyon item being less expensive!! :eyebrow:

[tripntx]

Dove with a Halcyon bc for two summers but sold it when I started training to be a DM cause I wanted to use brands my LDS carried. Been using a Dive Rite Rec for 3 yrs and it is nice.

Scuba Pro is coming out with its X-TEK line of BC's in March. I'm planning to switch to one, either SP X-TEK Pure Scubapro X-Tek Pure Tek System - Single Tank | Technical Diving,Wings | Simply Scuba UK (http://www.simplyscuba.com/products/Scubapro/X-TekPureTekSystem-SingleTank.aspx)
or SP X-TEK Comfort Scubapro X-Tek Comfort System | Technical Diving,Wings | Simply Scuba UK (http://www.simplyscuba.com/products/Scubapro/X-TekComfortSystem.aspx)
this spring. I've been unable to find any information about SP new Tek bc's on US sites, but they are already being advertised overseas.

[buddhasummer]

The halcyon octo grip pads sure look like the DSS ones.... but are actually $3 cheaper!

Imagine... a halcyon item being less expensive!! :eyebrow:

I dont suppose you have a link to the DSS ones I am unable to locate on their website, cheers.