Other great features
The Probe LX is a BCD that makes you feel like Oceanic really didn't miss anything - here are just a few of the other cool features:
- The Probe features Oceanic's patented Depth-Compensating Adjustable Cummerbund - a nifty device that is made of special elastic material that adjusts as you descend to compensate for the compression of your wetsuit - nice.
- With built-in stainless steel mounting grommets you can attach the optional Oceanic Spinner Knife directly to the either side of the BCD. This is a pretty good idea but I have noticed that the screws that come with the knife are not the strongest and I've personally had a knife fall off when one of my hoses caught it.
- For those with tech ambitions, the Probe LX can be adapted to take twin cylinders. Although I can't imagine many divers using this BCD for serious technical diving it is nice to have the option.
- It may seem pretty basic but one thing that Oceanic thought of was a handle. It's something that is often overlooked on BCDs but it's just one of those little extras that sets some BCDs apart.
The Downside
Fortunately there isn't much of a downside to this BCD. Probably the only thing I could pick is the weight. While the Oceanic Probe LX isn't the heaviest BCD on the market, it's a long way from the lightest. This is the trade off for all of those pockets and D-Rings but hopefully in future versions the weight will be less of an issue.Conclusion
If you like to carry a lot of equipment, both in pockets and attached to D-Rings and are looking for a jacket-style BCD then look no further - the Oceanic Probe LX has well and truly got you covered. If you're not interested in carrying lots of gadgets then this probably isn't the BCD for you. I feel like Oceanic have ticked every box with this BCD and I'm a big fan. Of course, it is quite bulky and heavy but that's to be expected with all of these features. The only way it could get any better for me is if it was a little lighter, but overall it's still an awesome BCD.