BC suggestion

[Daric]

I have searched and read the posts that relate, but still would like some input, please.

I would like to get a Zeagel Stilletto, but $ is a bit tight right now and I can get an Aeris Atmos XT (the older Atmos) for about $200 less than the Zeagle. I will travel quite a bit so packing size and weight matter. I think it weighs about 8 lbs which is a little heavy, but okay, and I don't know how well it packs (It's not on the Aeris webpage anymore since it is discontinued).

I do sort of like the hybrid idea if it works but am also fine with the back inflate Zeagle.

 

[ronbeau]

I have searched and read the posts that relate, but still would like some input, please.

I would like to get a Zeagle Stiletto, but $ is a bit tight right now and I can get an Aeris Atmos XT (the older Atmos) for about $200 less than the Zeagle. I will travel quite a bit so packing size and weight matter. I think it weighs about 8 lbs which is a little heavy, but OK, and I don't know how well it packs (It's not on the Aeris web page anymore since it is discontinued).

I do sort of like the hybrid idea if it works but am also fine with the back inflate Zeagle.

I carry on all of my life support equipment. I have a rolling carry-on suitcase that meets the maximum allowance for the size of carry-on luggage.

I put the following in the carry-on

ATMOS XT BC (Remove weight pockets from the BC)
Weight pockets for ATMOS XT
Atomic B2 Regulator
Aeris ATMOS AI dive computer
Prescription mask & snorkel
Atomic SS1 octopus/inflater
"C" cards
Reservations
Misc small items

The reason I suggest taking the weight pockets out of the BC is that is makes it easier to pack it since that section of the BC is not as stiff which saves a decent amount of space.

I made sure it would fit before buying the BC. I took the carry-on to the LDS along with the other items I wanted to fit in the carry-on.

I am very happy with the BC.

I would suggest buying a spare weight pocket for the BC in case you lose or break on vacation. The weight pockets are only $20 per pair.

I have not had to use the spare pockets yet but I feel it is cheap insurance. I pack the spare weight pockets in the checked baggage since I feel the chance of having the airline lose my baggage and simultaneously losing or breaking a weight pocket is extremely slim.

I am very happy with the BC. From what I can tell the difference between the XT and LX is the orientation of the weight pockets.


I hope answers your question.



A friend of mine with a different BC paid $35 for one packet he replaced on his BC.

 

[Chris Brown Tech]

Hi Daric,

See this thread http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=192640

Size and weight are important, but it becomes even more important underwater

 

[teamgs]

You might want to give the Zeagle Brigade (a scubatoys.com exclusive) a look. It is basically the Ranger with the smaller wing of the escape.

Gary

 

[scubacoots3]

You might also want to look at a DiveRite TransPac very compact and flexable.

 

[Mountain Dog]

I dive with the Atmos XT and couldn't be happier. It's an excellent piece of gear. As for packing, I put it in checked luggage with no problems. BC, exposure suits, and fins get checked together, and the bag usually weighs under 40 pounds.

Mountain Dog

 

[britishtq]

I dive a seaquest balance because they are very comfortable and also compact. Best gear choice I made so far.