Help! what to buy now so I can use it later?

[rongoodman]

You can think modular with regulators too. Instead of buying a regulator and separate octo, just get a first stage and two second stages of whichever model you like. When you need a pair for your doubles, you can just add an additional first stage and a couple of hoses. Even better if you start out with long hose/bungeed back-up/bare SPG arrangement. (The Hog D1s are inexpensive and work well.)

 

[String]

Consider the frog wings as well if you can find them. Halcyon copies at 1/3 of the price and same quality. Cheaper because you aren't paying massively over the odds just for a logo.

 

[LakeCountyDiver]

All of the advice above is well written but missed the mark. Your expectation that you can make a purchase now that will still fit your needs later is rich. It makes the assumption that you will be diving the same way later.
My advice is to buy used, on the cheap. After you dive the setup you will learn what you like and what you do not. Then start making purchases to meet those goals, based on what your diving looks like at the time. Get someone who is experianced with bpw to help you set it up or you may be basing your dis- likes on improper set up.
Eric

I agree with this. I called Tobin at Deepseasupply and with several pieces of advise he said dont buy gear BP/W with the intention for diving differently. Example: dont invest in a doubles setup unless you are going to do cave/deep deco dives in which case you will have a lot more equipment and training involved by the time you would get to using such gear. Just stick with something simple like a one piece HOG style harness and your choice of BP. The wing is just a simple calculation of the gear you use and the weight of your rig. If you want to use only a single tank rig to start you have several choices. Do call Tobin and he will spend the time with you to make sure you get the rig that is right for you for your needs today.

 

[Crock]

Deep Sea Supply. Give Tobin a call, his gear is top-notch and he will personally ensure that your rig is perfect for you.

Peace,
Greg

Thank you i will do that. There is a DSS dealer here in Toronto @ AquaSub Scuba.

 

[Crock]

BP&W is a modular concept. It can grow and provide for your diving needs as they evolve.

Start with the harness. Get a basic 'Hog' harness. Once it is adjusted correctly it is like a second skin. Only upgrade to a complex (and expensive) cinch/comfort or deluxe harness if you later feel it is necessary (most don't).

Then decide on your backplate. The choice of stainless steel, aluminium or plastic will be determined primarily by your buoyancy requirements. However, weight plays an issue if you will be travelling regularly with the kit (and subject to excess baggage charges). Give us an idea about your diving (current weight used, wet/drysuit buoyancy etc) and we can help you decide what is best.

Then decide on the wing lift that you need. Search for the 'Wing Buoyancy Calculator' thread here on SB. Typically, you will have the option of 18lb, 30lb and 40lb wing sizes for a single tank wing.

Choice between brands is dictated by your budget. Wings vary in quality and the material used for construction. Brands differ in respect of customer service and warranty. Don't think that you have to buy a 'complete system' from any single manufacturer - in most cases the backplate, harness and wing itself is inter-changable between brands.

When you move into tech diving, you will only have to swap the wing. You shouldn't compromise on a wing that may be advertised as 'good for both single and double cylinders'. There isn't a wing made that is optimal for both. You only have to undo 2 screws to change a wing over... so it isn't a drama to swap between single and double cylinders when you want to.

The Oxycheq Mach V Extreme is the most rugged wing on the market. Whilst expensive, it offers benefits for wreck diving, where abrasion and puncture are hazards.

Halcyon is expensive, but they have a consistant high quality and the warranty/customer service is excellent.

DSS is represented here on SB by the owner, Tobin (coolhardware52). He does an excellent job in providing personal service and advice to his customers. Highly recommended.

OMS and Diverite make good kit, but (IMHO) are more middle-of-the-road in respect of quality, attention to detail and customer service. There's nothing wrong with their kit. Consider these as 'budget' options.

I have the following:

Halcyon Ali backplate and hog harness (for travelling).
Custom Divers SS backplate and hog harness (for home).
Halcyon Evolve 40 (for doubles)
Custom Divers TDB Double Bladder (for doubles, but I rarely use it now)
Halcyon Eclipse (for singles).... will be getting an Oxycheq Mach V Extreme 18lb (for tropics) next.

I mix and match the kit depending on my requirements.

Thank you DevonDiver. I read a lot of your posts and I find them helpful. Thank you for posting on this thread and keep them coming.

 

[Crock]

Wow i just saw this video and said "woo are you kidding me, what the...can't be" that was easy. No bolts, fast and simple. Good for travel. Link is below:
YouTube - Deep Sea Supply LCD20 wing on a Freedom Plate

 

[PfcAJ]

Freedom plate is neat, but it doesnt have a way to mount an argon bottle or a storage pack to it (since you'[re considering tech in the future). Small point to consider.

 

[Crock]

good point thank you. Don't worry I will call Tobin.

 

[LakeCountyDiver]

good point thank you. Don't worry I will call Tobin.

Good choice that guy knows his stuff.