Hi -
I'm a relatively new diver and just returned from a 8 dives with a Zeagle Stiletto. There are some things I like about it, others not so much. One issue is that I was unable to get into a good position on the surface. I know that a back inflate BCD (this is my first trip with one) requires you to not fully inflate on the surface, and try to lean into a position to float more on your back - but I couldn't get it to work well. Some additional notes:
- I'm 5'10", 185lbs, wearing a 3mm shorty.
- At sufficient inflation levels to get my head above water I was pushed forward uncomfortably.
- With less inflation I could achieve a more vertical position but my head was only partly out of the water, requiring the use of my regulator.
- I couldn't sustain a position on my back, in part because there was significant swell/chop.
- Bottom line is that I feel like was expending too much effort on the surface, and not getting help from my equipment to prepare for recovery to the dive boat.
Some additional thoughts, if they are relevant:
- My legs are lean/heavy and no help achieving a floating position. But, I may go to a full 3/2mm or 3mm in the future (I was getting cold) if that is matters.
- My fins are Aqua Lung Slingshots and slightly negatively buoyant, I think.
- It seemed to me that the Stiletto places a large bubble of air fairly high up in the bladder at high inflation levels.
- I was using 14lbs, 4lb in the front pockets and 3lb in the back trim pockets.
I was happy with both vertical and horizontal trim under the water - but recovery to the dive boat wasn't fun. Any suggestions on anything different to try or skills to work on? Or, are there other back inflate BCDs that would perform any better?
Thanks