Buddy redwing

[Lesley]

I'm thinking of buying a Buddy Redwing as I haven't really enough buoyancy on the surface with my Buddy stab (it's a small so there's less lift). Has anyone any view, good or bad, on these before I buy one. I can't really afford a proper wing so thought that this was possibly the best option for me.
Thanks

[nick kay]

Hi Lesley

Used to have a Buddy Redwing and a Buddy Commando TD with twin cam-bands

Plus:
(1) combination had more than adequate to lift Twin 12s plus 2 stages
(2) you don't need to transition your skills - no difference than a straight BCD (though of course you do need to add the 2nd DF&dump to your buddy check, learn how to use it etc)
(3) much cheaper than buying a wing plus backplate plus harness plus quick-release
(4) leaves you a straight BCD to take on Hols

Minus (perceived):
(1) heavier (out of water) than a standard wing
(2) inherently more bulky/buoyant (without air) - you therefore need additional weight to compensate
(3) Bit of a pain if you teach in the pool - you either need to take the Redwing off (takes time) or look a bit of a p***t with all that gear

In all, probably the best/most inexpensive route to adding lift / peace of mind / moving to twins

[Steve L.]

I have a Redwing which I will be going to use with a Buddy Commando Profile jacket and twin 300 10`s. Hav`nt actually dived with it yet.

The main problem seems to be attaching it to the jacket with the Buddy twinning bands. It`s not especially difficult, but does involve a lot of farting about threading tank bands. If you are switching from twins to singles and back etc, then it`s a lot of work

However, I`m not sure yet if, having removed both tanks from the jacket, you can replace one using just the left or right (still threaded to the jacket) tank band. It may be a bit lopsided. Someone with more experience might know.

SL1

[Vic]

> I'm thinking of buying a Buddy Redwing as I haven't really
> enough buoyancy on the surface with my Buddy stab (it's a
> small so there's less lift).

I've got two Redwings - a 16Kg and a 22Kg. I don't often use the larger one anymore, but both are used as primary buoyancy sources.

> Has anyone any view, good or bad, on these before I buy one.

I like them. The only aggro I've had at all is that I found it difficult to get my long hose to stay at the right hip without something to hold it there (I really don't like Iain's trick of hitching it under the waistband - I find it distracting...). But it's not exactly rocket science to solve that minor hiccup...

You'll hear lots of noise that the Redwing is the wrong shape, that it can't be dived without a jacket as well, etc. I disagree with all that - I've found it an excellent wing.

> I can't really afford a proper wing so thought that this was
> possibly the best option for me.

You might like to investigate the "Tekwing" - it's a Redwing with an ABS backplate (you might even be able to pick one of those up cheap elsewhere - say, your LDS). This is the config I use abroad. It's not as good as a S/S plate, but it's a lot easier on the excess baggage.

When you decide it's time to move on to a plate, take a look at Nigel's offerings (which are very cheap). I prefer Portland Oceaneering's plate, but that's a lot more money.

HTH

Vic.

[Dominic Humphries]

I'm thinking of buying a Buddy Redwing

I use a tekwing - same thing, only with the inflator hose on the left and red sides. I like it, works fine, typical Buddy construction standards.

I can't really afford a proper wing

hmpf. Not a proper wing, indeed!

[Richard Greenwood]

I use one along with a Profile TD, and I've had no problems with it. Easily supports twin 10s and 7l stage. Only minor gripe I've got with it (as mentioned in another reply) is the messing about when swapping to second cylinders.

HTH