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TobyFish · March 27th, 2008, 01:24 PM

Quote: (Originally Posted by CWB)

Hello,
I'm building my first DIR style rig, and could use some advice on backplates. I'm working my way through this transition alone and don't have any other rigs to compare to. I'm in the tropics, and am only diving singles right now.

I'm currently running a Dive-Rite Transpac with a 30 lb lift Venture wing. I've got 2 pounds of non droppable-trim weight on it and the rig weighs in at exactly 10 pounds. I feel perfectly weighted with this outfit.

To keep with overall completed weight about the same, should I go with an alum or steel plate?

I'll probably use the wings off the transpac for now, but will go to a Halcyon or Oxycheq wing in the 30lb range later. I have no idea how much a Hog harness and a small wing weigh in at. I was afraid with an alum it might come out way too light or way too heavy with a steel.

Any recommendations on brand? There seems to be a lot of price disparity and not being able to compare them side by side I have no way of judging if a plate is a plate or if some are better quality than others.

Thanks for your help,
Chris

Plates are pretty much plates apart from the fine detail. For example, Tobin's have overmoulded gromets to reduce harness wear. Lenght and weight are the major variables.

Can I ask why you are going DIR on your own? As a system, it doesn't really make sense without a like-minded team.

March 27th, 2008, 01:24 PM	#2 (permalink)
TobyFish(Offline) Fine Upstanding Member Join Date: May 2006 Location: Telford, UK Posts: 836	Quote: (Originally Posted by CWB) Hello, I'm building my first DIR style rig, and could use some advice on backplates. I'm working my way through this transition alone and don't have any other rigs to compare to. I'm in the tropics, and am only diving singles right now. I'm currently running a Dive-Rite Transpac with a 30 lb lift Venture wing. I've got 2 pounds of non droppable-trim weight on it and the rig weighs in at exactly 10 pounds. I feel perfectly weighted with this outfit. To keep with overall completed weight about the same, should I go with an alum or steel plate? I'll probably use the wings off the transpac for now, but will go to a Halcyon or Oxycheq wing in the 30lb range later. I have no idea how much a Hog harness and a small wing weigh in at. I was afraid with an alum it might come out way too light or way too heavy with a steel. Any recommendations on brand? There seems to be a lot of price disparity and not being able to compare them side by side I have no way of judging if a plate is a plate or if some are better quality than others. Thanks for your help, Chris Plates are pretty much plates apart from the fine detail. For example, Tobin's have overmoulded gromets to reduce harness wear. Lenght and weight are the major variables. Can I ask why you are going DIR on your own? As a system, it doesn't really make sense without a like-minded team. __________________ Rude-boy Volvo "Gangsta Rollin' in me nine-six-oh"