mid range ($) apsc camera and housing

PHXAZCRAIG wrote:

I like the idea of smoothing out the rig. I'm still using a lot of the same equipment I started with, or adopted within a year. I use an Oceanic Islander BCD, which only weighs 6 pounds by itself. I do have a chest strap, though I don't know I particularly need it. Just always fastened it since it was there. Since about 2007.

I converted from a 'yellow hose' octo to an integrated one to eliminate one dangler. I've also had to use that integrated hose through a whole dive, and it wasn't pleasant.

I think the integrated octos compromise performance, and there's more non standard buttons to confuse in an emergency situation.   Definitely another case where you donate your primary.   I personally prefer a high perf octo - on one rig it's an old primary.

I've seen one or two wings, but never used one nor really understand what they would offer me over my little Islander.

I tried a number of back inflator BCDs from the attractive looking, but poor in water Ranger, to lighter ones.   Never found one I liked.   Problem for many was the soft back, esp with a single cam band.  I see the Islander has what looks to be a more solid tank plate.

But it is still got a lot of unnecessary cluster (particularly the pockets in front), and most of it is breakable plastic.   A lot of failure and break points, and much higher drag.    Those bungees on the wing try to mitigate air trappage, but it's a common problem for the BI BCs.

My 3 travel plate systems weigh between 7.6 and 8.3lbs.   Dual cams, metal d-rings and buckle, simple weight pockets for 10 lbs on the sides.  They break down into separate parts, which can make packing more efficient (particularly for 2).   There are some minimalist systems out there that likely drop the packing weight to under 5, but haven't tried yet.  I got a good collection already.

I like the weight distribution along the back.  For cold water, I use a stainless steel (-7lbs) with a 7lb weighted tank adapter.   That's 14 lbs well distributed, unlike single weight point along the waist.    The crotch strap is particularly helpful when using AL80s - which get positively buoyant middive.   The lack of need for the chest strap is good for the ladies, though I do see your BC has a couple mount points for it to allow for accommodation.

In true tropics, I use an 18lb wing that is again very low drag, though barely enough to float it at the beginning of a dive.   But I also have a 27, 38, 40 accumulated over time.   Easy to pick for the situation, based on weighting, wetsuit, wave levels.     If any single part wears out, easy to swap.    The wing part tends to be the most expensive, but if you buy the whole set used on ebay, can be much cheaper.