I use a conquest for rec instruction. I used to use it for rec diving. The additional buoyancy was a surprise to me the first time I used it in Cozumel. I needed 2 pounds more than my normal weight. The pockets on the conquest are great particularly the one on the waist. I use that for defog. The one on the shoulder, I use for keys, credit cards, and tip money.
It has really good weight distribution for a rec bcd. However, if you are really into it, for the same amount of money, you should go to a backplate and wing. Properly setup, you will have the best performance as it is infinitely configurable.
How much of a hassle is the Conquest to pack and fly with? Pretty heavy?