ScubaLab: BCs - SCUBAPRO Seahawk

Specifications

Style	Back Buoyancy
Warranty	Limited Lifetime
Size/Buoyant Lift (in lbs.)	S-56, M-56, L-56, XL-56, XXL-56
Integrated-Weight System	Yes
Dry Weight	8 lbs., 3 oz. (Size M)
Price	$604; $725 w/Air2
www.scubapro.com

Features:

• 1,000-denier nylon construction
• Compression strap air cell system
• Super Cinch stainless-steel tank-strap buckle
• Swivel shoulder buckles
• Soft neoprene neck roll and backpad
• Molded carry/lift handle
• Six stainless-steel D-rings, four prebent

Performance:

The favorite back buoyancy BC in this year’s General Purpose category, the majority of test divers went gaga over Scubapro’s Super Cinch stainless-steel tank-strap buckle which, once adjusted to the diameter of the tank, lets you lock it down with a single hook-and-clamp maneuver. That, combined with a molded carry handle and tank-positioning strap, earned the Seahawk a top score for Assembly. The Seahawk also aced the Comfort category. Test divers found the thin backpadding comfy and the neoprene neck roll first rate. With the contoured shoulder straps and swivel buckles that allow straps to be routed under the arms, test divers were able to pull the rig in close to the body for a snug fit and a stable ride at depth. The integrated-weight system loads easily when wearing the BC and secures with a pair of low-profile squeeze buckles. Two rear trim pockets balance out front weights to maintain a comfortable swimming position. Cargo pockets are a good size for a back-buoyancy design and are easily accessible.

Bottom Line:

The Seahawk is a do-it-all back-buoyancy BC. The Super Cinch tank-strap and weight system take some getting used to, but once you do they become got-to-have systems on a got-to-have BC.