When it comes to scuba diving equipment, cheaper doesn’t always mean inferior or less efficient. In fact, almost all price ranges in gear such as Buoyancy Compensators, Regulators, Octopuses, Fins and so on, all perform the same function as each other. They only differ in terms of being better suited for certain conditions or types of diving as opposed to others and of course personal preferences.
The functionality you need from a Buoyancy Compensator or BCD as it’s also known is primarily the power inflate and deflate along with an emergency dump valve and manual inflate option. An average lift capacity for a BC is in the 30-40 lbs. range, which is all you need for the average recreational diving. However,when it comes to cave, wreck or technical diving and if you plan on carrying extra gear and more than one tank the lift of the BCD is more crucial and should be considered accordingly. Another important function of a BCD is the pockets, buckles and rings to attach your other equipment but then again you can always add some on if needed.
A wise saying in diving is – “keep it simple and you will have fewer issues with your equipment!”
Here’s our picks for the best BC’s you can buy on a budget without compromising on function or quality-
Tusa 2100 BCD
PRO’s- This is a sturdy and well built basic BC. Packs easily and light for travel. Two zipper pockets and several plastic D-rings. Easy to adjust shoulder straps and features a quick dump valve on left shoulder, a rapid dump valve on right bottom as well as tank stabilization rails.
CON’s-The only downside to the BC is it could have used a few more clips or D-rings and it lacks a chest strap that many people prefer. It also has only one tank strap although the rails do keep the tank aligned properly.
Tusa 2100 BCD available at LeisurePro.com for $139.95*
Verdict: A tough, durable, basic BC with all the features needed for warm water recreational diving. Great value for money!
Sherwood Silhouette BCD
PRO’s- One of the USA’s top-selling BCs to schools and for shop rental, this BC is lightweight and extraordinarily comfortable with a good performance. The BCD has two conveniently located Quik-Clip buckles and two bottom D rings. The backpack has a sturdy integrated carrying handle at the top and is wonderfully padded. on the right shoulder is a pouch that is designed to house a strobe or small knife.
CON’s- There is only one pocket on the right side, but this is quite generously sized and would easily take a small reel and delayed SMB.
Sherwood New Silhouette BCD available at LeisurePro.com for $184.95*
Verdict: It’s a simple BC that looks as it could withstand plenty of rough treatment. It’s durable, affordable and an ideal entry-level BC.
Cressi-Sub Aquapro 5R Buoyancy Compensator
PRO’s- This is a well made lightweight comfortable, sturdy, weight integrated BCD that is cleverly designed. It has lots of pockets, D rings, and the weight pockets are secure and easy to change out weights. Features a contoured padded backpack.
CON’s- Weights are not really very “quick-release”. Seems a little less rugged than most.
Cressi-Sub Aquapro 5R Buoyancy Compensator available at LeisurePro.com for $229.95*
Verdict: Excellent lightweight travel BC. Best value for weight integrated BCD.
*Prices as of April 2010, please visit LeisurePro.com for the current prices.
