Scuba Shack will soon be stocking the Halcyon Traveler™ BC system. We’ve been testing this travel BC for the past month, and we’re certain it will be our number one seller this year since it offers recreational divers a lightweight, strong Nylon backplate that is easily adjustable in or out of the water and a perfect travel BC. It weighs under six pounds, and should be priced at about $549. (The release-price is $599.)

The Traveler merges the simplicity and lightweight appeal of small jacket systems with the performance of back-mounted BC systems. The Traveler’s unique PA6 Nylon backplate has an integrated single-tank carrier and Cinch quick-adjust system, providing a secure, lightweight, and easily adjustable BC system. These integrated design features are specifically designed for single tank diving, eliminating the single-tank adaptor and keeping the tank close to the diver’s back. These unique features are combined with a number of other weight-reducing features, allowing the Halcyon Traveler to weigh in at a mere 5.6 pounds (2.5kg).

Many divers will be able to use this BC for diving in New England, and we’re excited about the price and quality. This BC is priced about $300 less than the Halcyon Infinity, offering many of the same features but with the non-removable Nylon backplate exclusively designed for the most popular single-tank configuration.

The non-releasable weight attachment system can be configured to hold between 2 and 12 pounds and is distributed along your back to reduce or eliminate the need for weight around your waist. This new system holds firm, ensuring your tank and buoyancy system will not shift around while diving.

We will always try to stock at least three or four of these systems, but we expect the Traveler to be a very popular product in 2012 … so you may want to stop by the store and check out the demo model we have been testing, and consider pre-ordering as expected shipping dates are in mid-May.

Key features:

• Ideal for travel; weighs only 5.6 pounds
• Black, hardcoat anodized aluminum D-rings; reduces weight with a stylish look
• Unique weight attachment systems (see image); add up to 12 pounds of almost any style weight
• Integrated Cinch quick-adjust system (patent pending) with nearly instant adjustability
• Easily adjustable while in or out of the water; snug, stable fit with easy removal
• Seamless use of included hip D-ring or optional weight pockets/light holder
• Padded shoulder and back pads; provide unparalleled comfort
• Available in 30lb (14kg) lift capacity; 1000-denier Cordora bladder
• For use with single tank only