Tusa Imprex Pro (BCJ4900) review

Introduction

I am new to diving and I am looking for equipment that will last me a while but won’t break the bank. When I started inquiring about what BC to buy, lots of well meaning folks recommended Zeagle and other back inflating BCs. Even back plate systems like those made by Halcyon were recommended. That was all a bit much for me. I read some positive reviews on the Tusa Pro BC and decided to give it a shot.

Factory Specs

Since this is not a replacement but rather a supplement to the information already provided by Tusa I’ll simply provide a link to their web site for the basic information:

Tusa web site info

First impressions (above water)

Overall

This product seems very well made, the fabric feels nice, seams seem well finished. It’s made in the USA.

Above is a picture of my left foot and coincidentally the BC on the grass in my back yard. Clearly visible are the 6 stainless steel D-rings, cumberbund, front pockets (with reflective logo), hose clip, air wing with double dumps, quick release shoulder straps and the integrated weight system. The lift capacity should be 45 Lbs (L/XL model).

Weight system

The integrated weight system seems very well thought out. The two pockets are attached to the bottom of the air wing. This should help maintain a horizontal position on the surface. Also, the pockets came with the BC while others (like the Chute 2 by Oceanic) require separate purchase of these pockets. The weight is very secure and can only be dumped by deliberate action. I tried this several times and each time the system worked flawlessly. Here is a picture of a single weight pocket:

The pockets are zippered and will hold about 15 Lbs of lead a piece.

Additional, non dumpable weight can be stored in two zippered pockets on the outside of the wing. I am not sure yet if I will use that.

Tank holder

There are two straps to hold the tank. There is one contact patch where the tank mates with the BC (which has a hard plate BTW):

Also visible is the valve strap that secures the tank even further and should make mating tank and BC easier because once the BC is hung over the valve you have your hands free to secure the straps. This system should mount the tank securely but I won’t know for sure until I’ve tried it.

Fit and function

The cumberbund can easily be adjusted to the right size. It’s kind of odd that the waist strap seems to creep up over the cumberbund rather than stay on it. This may be different once underwater since the waist straps are attached to the air wing. This allow you to pull the wing closer or allow it further from you by adjusting the tightness of the strap.

The low pressure inflator hose has an integrated dump valve that is activated by pulling on it. The inflator and purge buttons seem to work well. Oral inflation worked without a problem. The LPIH comes with a whistle (stylish black rather than visible orange) and a rubber plug to keep the LPIH nipple clean when not attached.

The pockets are closed with velcro. They are plenty deep and wide but they lack expandability. I had no trouble fitting my Ikelite PCa backup light in there but a spare mask would probably not fit. For bulky items I’d probably have to buy a separate bag. I was told however that other BCs like the Zeagle Ranger suffer from smallish pockets as well. In that particular case using the integrated weight system takes away pocket space. Supposedly the Oceanic Chute 2 doesn’t have this problem but it’s weight system has gotten poor reviews.

Second Impressions (under water)

Will be written when appropriate.

Longevity

After several dozen dives I will revisit this product.


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