Big Man versus BCD

[LeadTurn_SD]

I'm also a "big fellow", 6'5", 260lbs.

I've found a BP/W to be far more comfortable than a jacket BC. As others have already posted, it can be adjusted to fit YOU perfectly, rather than a standard BC that needs to fit a range of divers.

There are a lot of online choices for BP/W's once you really start to look. But for quality vs cost vs service, Tobin at DSS is a great starting place. Dive Sports also has great service, as does Hammerhead (for backplates). So if you cannot find what you are looking for locally, shopping online is very a good option.

Scubaboard can provide lots of advice on rigging if you do buy online and need help setting up your BR/W.

Good luck

 

[Straegen]

I think I have narrowed it to the DSS or the Zeagle unless a good deal comes along. Still having a hard time getting past the extra hundred plus for a BPW over the Zeagle. Not that I am cheap, but after trying on a Ranger and trying it out briefly I find it relatively comfy and it can be had new (Brigade anyway) for under $400 in my size with the forum discount. The BPW after weight belt is going to be just over $500 if I do my math correctly.

I will probably end up in a DSS unless a deal drops in my lap as it seems the BPW has a lot of room for expansion... both in features and my own girth (hoping that doesn't happen any time soon).

Thanks for the help and I am still listening.

 

[mongodives]

As another one of the big people, over the years I've used several different vest BCD's and they never seem to fit right. Recently I bought a DSS BP/W, comfortable, and easy to adjust to fit over different types and thicknesses of exposure suits.
Tobin has also been pretty cool about answering my questions.

 

[japan-diver]

I would recommend from those choices the DSS plate and harness. For a big guy this is the easiest to adjust and make fit easily.

 

[smb1014]

I have the Halcyon Eclipse BP/W 30 pound edition and love it. It is very streamlined and easy to travel with. Give it a look at www.halcyon.net