Tech Bcd?

[Chris H]

Mike,
Go with a backplate and wing.  Halcyon and Dive Rite make some great examples, but I think the Halcyon single tank wing (Pioneer or Eclipse) is better than the Dive Rite single tank wing (Venture).  The beauty of a Bp/wing is the versatility.  When used with the proper wing, they can be used for any type of diving.  Wetsuit, drysuit,  singles or doubles.  You can get a plate with a wing that suits your current needs and then get another wing in the future so you are diving a wing suitable for your needs.  Bigger isn't better in most cases.  I have Dive Rite stainless plate with a single webbed harness.  I dive a 55# Halcyon Explorer with double 130s or double 80s.  I have some double 95s I haven't tried yet.  That is often with two stages (40 and an 80)and I haven't had any issues yet.  I am currently considering the 40#Halcyon Evolve wing for the 80s and possibly the 130's too.  For most single tank applications, the 27#Pioneer or the 30# Eclipse will be plenty.

I think the Halcyon Pioneer system is $525.  A lot of the so called Tech BCs are in the $800 range.  If you want to continue with tech diving, you will soon learn that you just wasted $800 if you buy one.  You mentioned you wanted an investment, the BP/and an wing of the proper size for the dives you will be doing is a great place to start.

This is all just my opinion, but I can think of at least 5 guys on this board who have switched to a BP/wing from something more much more convoluted.