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Is there any particular reason why many DIR divers use Halcyon gear? Im just curious.
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I understand. I am not questioning the quality of the gear. I only ask because it seems to be much more expensive.
Unless you're diving with the WKPP, there's no mandate to purchase a specific brand.
... Bob (Graeful Diver)
I understand. I am not questioning the quality of the gear. I only ask because it seems to be much more expensive.
A few examples....Halcyon uses a cloth like material for their bladders to make them very pinch proof, I think they're the only ones to do that. The scout backup lights have a very tight beam which is hard to find in a backup light. Their pockets are much larger than a lot of what's on the market, come with bungee already in, and a special sub-pocket for wet notes. Their wet notes have a clear spot in the back for deco tables, many don't. Their back plates are bent at the bottom ends to keep them from poking you-- it's annoying on longer dives. Their scooters have a removable prop so you can remove line in the prop underwater. The Halcyon regulators aren't made by Halcyon, but they took the time to choose a reputable company, and the regulators I've had can go 3 years without service, vs HOG/Salvo/Dive Rite regs that have IP creep every 6mo.
You'll notice you don't see a ton of reviews on Halcyon's service. That's because they test their products before they release them. I can tell you when you do have an issue-- Halcyon service is top notch, nearly better than anything else I've seen in the dive industry, with one or two brands on par.
I was telling a diver this weekend who was asking about random brands...It's been my experience that if i buy all Halcyon gear, it works 100% as I need. If I try to get a cheaper brand, 2-3 times out of 5 I end up with issues, either it breaks or doesn't work as well, and it negates the good deal I got on other gear which does work equally as well. Consider the cost of ownership over the life of the product more than the initial cost, and I think you'll find Halcyon is usually cheaper. I've been burned enough by other brands that I don't really shop around much any more.
There are other companies that provide excellent service and only put out quality product, I think DeepSeaSupply is a fine example. Light Monkey lights are, as well. I think the scooters made by Silent Submersion are an excellent choice too.
Unless you're diving with the WKPP, there's no mandate to purchase a specific brand.
... Bob (Graeful Diver)
There is no brand mandate for the WKPP, excluding the RB80. Halcyon and Extreme Exposure (a Halcyon dealer) both do a lot to support the non profit org, which is why members tend to all choose their gear.
This is what I was looking for. Thank you. Is there I good online dealer for Halcyon?