Backplate for pony bottle

[Doctor Rig]

I’m thinking of making a smaller than normal backplate for a 19 and/ or 30 cu ft pony bottle. Right now, I’m thinking this backplate will not have a bladder or be part of a BC. My objective is to make it effective, comfortable and simple as possible. Any suggestions!

I’ve not had my hands on a backplate yet and but it appears the sides of a typical backplate, that are against ones back, are angled to each other. Anyone know what that angle is or give me some idea how to decide what makes a good fitting backplate?

Any & all comments/suggestions are welcome. Thanks!

 

[James79]

Both of my boys (14 and 10) use BPWs that I made from scratch. For the backplate, I cut outline and slots in a $5 cutting board. Dirt cheap, and very effective. I now dive a VDH plate (which is completely flat as well), but because it was gifted to me... not out of any dislike for the cutting board plates. This thread is my prototype:
Back Plate and wing..$28 dollars invested!
Near the end of the thread I posted my current template.
Respectfully,
James

 

[johndiver999]

Aqua Tank Back Pack with Strap

 

[Doctor Rig]

Both of my boys (14 and 10) use BPWs that I made from scratch. For the backplate, I cut outline and slots in a $5 cutting board. Dirt cheap, and very effective. I now dive a VDH plate (which is completely flat as well), but because it was gifted to me... not out of any dislike for the cutting board plates. This thread is my prototype:
Back Plate and wing..$28 dollars invested!
Near the end of the thread I posted my current template.
Respectfully,
James

Thanks for sharing @James79. Since you used a flat plate, do you find the tank stays centered on your back and is as comfortable as a backplate that is not flat or contoured (angled sides)?

 

[James79]

Thanks for sharing @James79. Since you used a flat plate, do you find the tank stays centered on your back and is as comfortable as a backplate that is not flat or contoured (angled sides)?

I wish I could give you a comparison, but I've only used flat plates.... though, I intend on trying a heat gun to bend the bottom edges of one, and will report back on how that goes.
Sorry,
James

 

[James79]

Also, I haven't messed with bending a plate, because it is plenty comfortable as is... and stays put just fine. I do use a crotch strap, for what it's worth. Here's my youngest rocking the cutting board with a DIY wing and an old school 72;

Respectfully,
James

 

[Doctor Rig]

Also, I haven't messed with bending a plate, because it is plenty comfortable as is... and stays put just fine. I do use a crotch strap, for what it's worth. Here's my youngest rocking the cutting board with a DIY wing and an old school 72;
View attachment 604956 View attachment 604957
Respectfully,
James

Pretty cute kids... you must be a proud dad!!

 

[Angelo Farina]

Also, I haven't messed with bending a plate, because it is plenty comfortable as is... and stays put just fine. I do use a crotch strap, for what it's worth. Here's my youngest rocking the cutting board with a DIY wing and an old school 72;
View attachment 604956 View attachment 604957
Respectfully,
James

Nice boy, nice regs...

 

[Couv]

I’m thinking of making a smaller than normal backplate for a 19 and/ or 30 cu ft pony bottle. Right now, I’m thinking this backplate will not have a bladder or be part of a BC. My objective is to make it effective, comfortable and simple as possible. Any suggestions!

If you're going to go this route: Aqua Tank Back Pack with Strap I can sell you a used setup much cheaper than that.