Ok, maybe I should post in the BC area here or **********, but ********** is infected with DIR types spreading their germs around and I am after a less hysterical (and Kiwi) opinion.

I am looking at getting a BC soon (i'm a n00b ok).

I have discovered that I am not a fan of jackets as I don't like the squeeze.

I like the look and the reviews of the Knighthawk but I am ambivalent about integrated weights.

It is also frickin pricey anywhere you look - $1500 or so new.

My other option that I am tossing up is a BP&W, diverite to be precise. I have spoken to the guys at NorthEast Scuba in the US and they will ship a diverite to NZ. The package is about $400 US plus another $100 for shipping (or about 1/2 the price of the kit in NZ).

What I like is that it is modular and I can change it easily if my diving changes (doubles etc).

Plus, just to prove how shallow I am, will I look like a complete w@nker if I turn up to an AOW class wearing a BP&W - I don't want to look like super-tech-boy!!

Cheers,
Bob