New, larger diver

[Qix]

Yet another vote for a Backplate, Wing and Harness setup.

I started with Zeagle and liked it. My friend uses it now (but is already planning to get a BPW). The Zeagle Ranger cumberbund extends and works well. So if you see one of those at a store or someone offers it, if it is the larger size to start with it should fit you and last many years if properly cared for.

But in the end; all those straps flapping around, weight stuffed in pockets that don't quite seem right, this emergency dump or that, plasticy clips everywhere, buckles, pads, way too much material to wash and dry - blech!

You should be able to build up a nice BPW setup (brand new) for under $500. You can probably knock at least $100 off that if you can find a deal on a used wing and not go crazy on fancy harness stuff.

Re: weights. With the BPW setup, you can place some weight on the tank bands and put the rest in regular pouches which go on the belt portion of the harness. You could also wear a second weight belt but that gets you into weird territory (which belts goes on the outside).

The people at Scuba Center helped me setup my BPW - fits perfect. Not a single strap dangling around. Easy to take apart and clean. Trims out perfect. Custom fit to my size. Easy to customize. Smaller to travel with. I would strongly urge you to talk to someone who sells / sets up BPW configs before making your final choice. If you end up liking the BPW, you've just saved yourself a lot of money not buying a traditional BCD first.

Research 'Hogarthian' diving configurations for more details regarding the BPW diving configuration. You'll probably come across some decent recommendations for regulators and don't be surprised if you find yourself ordering a 7' long hose, attaching screen door springs to your fins and wondering where you can get 10' of bungee

Remember, just because your training was done with a certain set of gear does not mean you have to then go out and buy all those exact same things.