The backplate and wing are two separable components of a scuba harness. Each piece is attached to a buoyancy compensator, which establishes positive buoyancy on the surface and neutral buoyancy underwater. Backplate and wing are modular systems, with each component separable from the other. These systems are an excellent choice for divers who aren’t sure what type to buy. These pros and cons are listed below.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel back plate and wings are available with or without a harness. 316 stainless-steel is used for the backplate and wings and is highly resistant to saltwater. It is cut on a CNC cutter and polished manually to prevent sharp edges which can prematurely wear the strap. They can also be used in conjunction with single-air-tank or dual air-tank systems. For easier storage, the wings and backplate can be removed from stainless steel.
Aluminium backplates weigh more than stainless steel. Stainless steel backplates are great for colder climates, where they'll reduce the weight you'll carry during your dive. Stainless steel backplates can be adjusted to fit most tanks, unlike lead pieces. A Halcyon Dealer can offer weighting advice to help determine what size is best for you. The backplate will last longer so that you don't need it to be replaced as often.
Plastic
Even though the buoyancy of plastic back plate or wing is negative it can still be beneficial for weight replacement. Jacket BCDs have pockets and weight integration. These features are not present in the backplate or wings system. These components can be ordered separately. This article will discuss the pros and cons of both. It is vital to select the right backplate for your needs.
Softpack harness
There are many types of harnesses available for wings and back plates. Backplates, wing BCDs, and the most common are both available. They contain all the essential components like a harness, backplate and wing. The user can customize the harness by adding a variety of adjustable features. Softpack BCDs can be used by technical divers because they are lightweight and flexible, and don't attach to any rigid plates.
The downside of steel backplate harnesses is their lack of adaptability. The harness is not meant to be used on single tanks. It can only be used on double tanks with permanent banding. The steel harness is the most rigid option but is clumsy to use when traveling. It can only be used for double tanks. Also, the steel backingplate may not work well on land. It can be converted to work with single tanks by attaching adapters, but this is not recommended.