Every business needs to evolve to survive and I am a firm believer in supporting local business but I won't if they wont at least match the price plus shipping and sales tax.
I understand the argument that supporters make about volume and how much more online shops sell than a LDS but the internet only limits those that don't want the hassel. Volume makes a difference but not nearley as much as they say it does and I know for a fact that many dive shops mark prices above suggested retail and carry brands like scuba pro because they are price protected and not because they are superior like many claim. Scuba pro used to publish the prices in its catalogs and stopped because of some dive shops were complaining for that very reason.
I wanted to buy my gear at my LDS but they did not sell Mares regs and I was quoted 1400.00 for a middle of the road scuba pro reg, octo, and a dive computer.
I bought everything new which includes: Mares abyss, proton octo, mares air integrated computer, new BC, weight belt, Tusa Split fins, Mares mask, and a custom wet suit for around 1200; most of which I gladly bought at Scuba Toys.
Scuba Diving is not just for the rich and is a sport that should be enjoyed by all no matter what the income level. Why push people in the direction of making the bigger mistake of buying used gear instead of offering to match the price on new gear I could buy at an online seller. I would be willing to bet most LDS push people to look for cheaper alternatives because of the prices they charge and most people would be inclined to purchase used gear in their local area instead of taking the risk of buying online for fear of getting ripped off.
I understand the argument that supporters make about volume and how much more online shops sell than a LDS but the internet only limits those that don't want the hassel. Volume makes a difference but not nearley as much as they say it does and I know for a fact that many dive shops mark prices above suggested retail and carry brands like scuba pro because they are price protected and not because they are superior like many claim. Scuba pro used to publish the prices in its catalogs and stopped because of some dive shops were complaining for that very reason.
I wanted to buy my gear at my LDS but they did not sell Mares regs and I was quoted 1400.00 for a middle of the road scuba pro reg, octo, and a dive computer.
I bought everything new which includes: Mares abyss, proton octo, mares air integrated computer, new BC, weight belt, Tusa Split fins, Mares mask, and a custom wet suit for around 1200; most of which I gladly bought at Scuba Toys.
Scuba Diving is not just for the rich and is a sport that should be enjoyed by all no matter what the income level. Why push people in the direction of making the bigger mistake of buying used gear instead of offering to match the price on new gear I could buy at an online seller. I would be willing to bet most LDS push people to look for cheaper alternatives because of the prices they charge and most people would be inclined to purchase used gear in their local area instead of taking the risk of buying online for fear of getting ripped off.
. anyway youre lucky and have a good lds, many are not and have to use web based stores and still have a great experience. it doesnt make one better than the other. after all we have 2k6 and technology moves on. just think about dive computers (vr3) you buy it and can upgrade it to your needs (software) online 
