How Can I Try a BP/W Setup?

[dschonbrun]

I recently switched from a cushy BC (Scubapro Knighthawk) to a BP/W setup. Tobin was very helpful in getting me into the right equipment. We went with a SS plate and HOG harness, which is what he recommended starting with. After a week of diving (about 24 dives), and a few config changes, I realized that my anatomy and the hog config weren't a perfect match... cutting in at my neck, shoulders, and obliques. I didn't feel the backplate at all underwater... it was the webbing that was the problem. Rather than give up all together, I switched to a Transplate harness. The attachment points are a bit different and the straps remain closer to my sternum; I'm happy with the results. The setup is still very streamlined, highly adjustable, and quite comfortable (minimal pad at the shoulders, so no real positive bouyancy). The modularity of the BP/W is wonderful, as is the efficiency and reduced drag. Too many people judge the comfort out of the water... it's better to try it diving. I find that it has enabled me to be an even more efficient diver.

 

[Trimix2dive]

Great that is what a dive shop that works with you is suppose to do.

 

[skubadad]

So....shortly after starting this thread I was laid off. Long story short, I was only out of work for about 2 months, but it took some time before i was able to consider a purchase such as this. Well, I'm happy to say that today I placed my order for a medium SS backplate with Torus 17 wing. I spoke with Tobin for about 20 minutes and it was very informative and helpful. His knowledge of the science of buoyancy is probably second to none. In about a week or so I should have a new DSS BP/W at my doorstep. For those thinking about a DSS setup, but still have questions, call Tobin. During our entire conversation there was absolutely no pressure to buy anything. It was just two divers sharing a conversation about BC's, BP/W's and buoyancy. Tobin was not selling, he was teaching.

 

[TSandM]

Tobin was not selling, he was teaching.

That's the Tobin George I know!

 

[koozemani]

congrats!! I was wondering why someone was chiming in on an old thread. You won't be sorry.

 

[divesergeant]

I got one. My wife tried it and she got one. I switched for more streamlining, less bulk, easier packing for travel and, as much as anything, because the whole simple idea just seemed cool!

I dive a kydex BP with 17 lbs wing. All in the Caribbean. I use 3 lbs of weight which I either put onto a pouch on my top tank band or on a pouch on my waist belt from the BP. I do not use a separate weight belt. My pouch is a quick-dump XS Scuba model.

I probably drove Tobin crazy with emails and questions. He never tried to 'sell' me, he actually talked me out of spending money with him that he believed I did not need to spend!

DS