OMS SS or alum backplate?

[slackercruster]

Should I get a OMS comfort harness with alum or SS backplate? My goal is to use the least weight in the pockets and was wondering if the SS would be better for this? I dive in fresh water most of the time. The only drawback for me is the SS cost as I am on a budget.

Thanks

 

[micklock]

It depends on your tanks (al or steel), suit (wet or dry) and how much weight you use. I went with al because I dive twin steel tanks.

 

[nereas]

It depends on your tanks (al or steel), suit (wet or dry) and how much weight you use. I went with al because I dive twin steel tanks.

Micklock is right.

It has nothing to do with budget.

 

[RAWalker]

I use one of each for different configurations dependant on tanks and exposure protection. Also depending on whether traveling or local diving.
With the AL plate I can save 4 lbs in my luggage and add that to my weight belt or pockets. You can't take the weight off a too heavy SS plate but you can add weight to a lighter rig.

 

[slackercruster]

It depends on your tanks (al or steel), suit (wet or dry) and how much weight you use. I went with al because I dive twin steel tanks.

I use single tank AL 80 CF and wet suit.


Good idea about the travel weight. But isn't it a pain to change the webbing from one plate to the other?

 

[vshearer]

I use single tank AL 80 CF and wet suit.


Good idea about the travel weight.

Steel.

 

[micklock]

I use single tank AL 80 CF and wet suit.


Good idea about the travel weight. But isn't it a pain to change the webbing from one plate to the other?

Usually with an AL tank you use a steel bp, you can take 6lbs off your belt. Webbing is cheap, you don't switch it from one plate to another.

 

[micklock]

Here are some nice backplates for a good price, 85$ for SS and 49$ for AL.
Hammerhead Scuba - Hammerhead II Backplate

 

[DepthJunkie]

I may be wrong, but I don't think a comfort harness conforms to Hogarthian principles of minimalism.

 

[RAWalker]

I may be wrong, but I don't think a comfort harness conforms to Hogarthian principles of minimalism.

Was a Hogarthian or minimalist approach part of the OP's requirements. It isn't one of mine. Just because someone likes a BP&W doesn't require them to take a minimalist or Hogarthian approach to diving. A BP&W may be used simply for it's modular versatility or because of it's good trim characteristics.