Which wing and other questions...

[gfisher4792]

Ok, today my brain finally clicked to the BP/W position, and I've decided to drop some cash and make the purchase. However, I have a couple of questions, which I'm sure have already been addressed in previous threads, but the search function spits out literally a ton of pages, and I really don't want to thumb though all of them.

I believe I'm going with the S&W Hammerhead BP at http://www.swmetalproducts.com/hhbp1.asp (along with their harness), but I'm wondering what wing I should/can get for this BP? I'll be doing mostly single tank, cold water (7mm kind of water), all rec, at least for the upcoming year or so. And do I have to get an STA or just cam bands? I guess that depends on the wing.

I also would like some weighting system recommendations. I know Dive Rite has their pocket weight system, and I'd rather not go with a weight belt, but what are the options?

Signed,

Another BP/W convert (though not DIR)

Thanks.

 

[ScubaRon]

I want to buy Michelin tires. Which car should I get with them? :54:

Aren't your priorities reversed? I suggest you search this forum for opinions on wings first. Brands that many people like are Halcyon, Dive Rite and OMS.

 

[jonnythan]

I think the top two suggestions would be the 44 lb Oxycheq Signature series ($335) and the 40 lb Halcyon Eclipse wing ($368).

I have a Halcyon Pioneer wing. If I were buying one now I'd probably get the Eclipse wing. With the Oxycheq, you need to special request a short inflator hose, and you get the older style inflator with plastic buttons. The Eclipse has the "correct" inflator length and the new inflator mechanism, so I think it would be worth the $30 or so.

 

[Scubaroo]

With the Oxycheq, you need to special request a short inflator hose

Sorry Jonnythan, but this is incorrect. I've posted photos of the two inflators on an OxyCheq and a Halcyon side-by-side. They're the same length. This all started with some long inflator LP hoses being supplied on the very original batch of wings that were distributed.

 

[jonnythan]

I've seen lots and lots of posts of people saying they got the long inflator, and had to request the shorter one. Guess it's not done anymore, but if I were ordering one I'd sure make a special note to ask for the shorter one.

Ah well.

 

[Boogie711]

In reference to the poster's original question - you can use just about any wing you want. The SW Metalworks plate has camband slots already cut in, so you can use the Halcyon, or get a STA and use just about any other type wing.

Word of caution - take a metal file and be prepared to take the 'bite' off some of the edges. Mine was pretty sharp when I got it.

 

[christopher1260]

I don't mean to hijack this post, but does the S&W harness kit come with the buckle, d rings, and slide keepers? If it does, the harness kit is a steal at $38. Thanks for the input. CJ

 

[jonnythan]

FredT's harness kit is a great deal, at $40.

"The standard harness set kit consists of 6 yards of 2” heavy webbing, 2 ea. 45° Billy rings, 1 ea. 90° Billy ring, heavy keeper, light keeper, heavy D-ring, light D-ring and SST pin buckle."

I believe you can substitute bent or standard D-rings for the Billy rings.

 

[Boogie711]

FredT makes great stuff. Alternatively, yes, S&W's stuff comes with everything needed.

 

[neophytediver]

S&W has a special going right now:

1. $99 (plus shipping) for a Stainless Steel plate and 1 pieces STA
2. Aluminum plate with a two piece STA for $69.99 plus shipping
3. Harness kits for $44.99

Not bad all things considered.