Prioritizing gear [Archive]

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Cosmographer

February 4th, 2012, 04:47 AM

koozemani

February 4th, 2012, 05:09 AM

Here's my thoughts,

IMO, your priorities are way off. You want to drop a whole bunch of Money on a camera, but not own your own mask and fins? For the price of a cheap point and shoot w/o a strobe you could clear half your list. Add even a cheap strobe and there's either your bc and or computer.

1. Mask/fins/booties: I good fitting mask is priceless. You might not be so lucky renting one. You can probably buy all three as a package.

2. Safety equipment: plenty of threads on why

3. Gloves: fairly inexpensive, you can get a decent pair for less than $30. I wouldn't even put them on a priority list and just buy a pair.

4. Knife: you could probably put this under safety equipment. Shears or something smaller will work.

5. Computer/Compass: having your own computer means you'll be familiar with it and know how to use it. Compass only if you go wrist mount, otherwise, there's probably one on you console. Same with the computer, unless it's a wrist mount, you might as well buy a whole reg setup. Which would also take care of that.

6. Camera: I'd wait until you improve your skills underwater. It's hard to take pictures when you're flailing about.

7. Bag: at least get something to bring all your gear to and from the boat.

8. Bc/reg/wetsuits: figure out what you want/need before buying. If the dive ops rental wetsuits are in good condition then theres no rush.

Cosmographer

February 4th, 2012, 05:33 AM

Thanks for the advice. As for the camera, it's a no brainer for me. If my topside SLR broke, I would postpone a vacation until it was replaced - I don't see the point of going on a vacation without one. Indeed, I would rather not go on vacation at all rather than go without a camera. A similar mindset applies to diving. If I see something amazing while diving without a camera, would I be happy and excited to have at least seen it? Nope, I'd be disappointed and hitting myself for a long time (maybe forever) for not having shot it. I would rather have not seen it all. Different people have different priorities, I suppose. Maybe I'm just weird. However, I will note there are a few exceptions to this: when learning new skills (ie cave diving, wreck diving) I might leave behind my camera until I felt more comfortable. As for regular rec diving, I'm comfortable enough (but far from perfect) with buoyancy, etc. so as to not be distracted by lugging around the camera.

As for the rest, I find it interesting that regs are so low on the list. I can understand that with the BC/wetsuit, but it seems that SB members often recommend buying your own reg early. In terms of the safety stuff, it makes sense. It's just that we've been spoiled on every dive thus far with DMs who would figuratively (and in one case literally) handhold us through the entire dive. In fact, diving without a DM escort seems a bit intimidating, but that's a subject for a whole 'nother thread.

I do wonder why everyone puts the mask so high on the list though. Do people really have that many problems with fitting a rented mask? (actually, my wife does, but I always figured she was the exception).

LowDrag

February 4th, 2012, 06:22 AM

So putting together various hints and tips scattered across SB, I've come up with a list of things I will buy in the order I think I should buy them. Any comments or advice would be much appreciated.
UW camera system (what can I say, it's a priority for me; wouldn't want to dive w/out one - already purchased)
Gloves (Only 9 dives so far, but been stung by jellies or something numerous times on several dives, leaving me miserable and itchy for days)
Dive Computer (Even though I passed OW, I still hate using tables. I know, I know - so sue me :D)
Mask (Never had an issue with rented masks, but seems this is high up on everyone's priority list)
Regulator (Less quality/maintenance issues with own reg*, and don't have to use a used mouthpiece)
Fins/booties (Mostly for convenience - I don't like the foot-fitting fins carried by most dive ops)
Wetsuit (Cumbersome - also I'd rather pee in a rented suit than my own - kidding! ... sort of)
BCD (Cumbersome, also would like to try out a rental BP/W before deciding)
Signaling (Mirrors, whistles, SMB - low because all our dives have been private w/DM - should this be higher up?)
Knife (Again, always had a DM close by - while nice, in hindsight, the DMs have probably become a crutch for us)
Compass (For whenever we get around to doing a navigation course)
Dive travel bag (Don't really see a need for this when I can buy a Briggs & Reilly bag with a lifetime warranty covering wear and tear - even for salt water damage. Am I missing something here?).
*Note: I'm not convinced this holds true for a noob since I probably will end up taking poorer care of my reg than an experienced dive op.

Does this look like a reasonable order in which to buy gear?

1. For me, this would be at the very bottom of my list based on tasking loading and not being able to complete my OW cert's last month due to being overloaded with mask issues and breathing problems causing enough anxiety already.
2. Gloves, mask, fins, boots, snorkel and dive bag all came in my basic snorkeling package that I hand picked myself with assistance from LDS lead instructor.
3. Dive Computer will also come in a package deal: Reg's, BC, and console - to include PC, SPG & Compass. My LDS will work with me on setting up my package with reg's as 1st priority, BC's 2nd. Safety gear is not that expensive and can be picked anywhere at a reasonable price.
4. Covered in #3.
5. Covered in #3.
6. Covered in #2.
7. Wetsuit: Personally I am going to be going dry so with that I am going to need to take a bit of time to purchase due to price and wanting to make sure I get a good suit.
8. I have looked at travel BC's and I don't see enough weight difference personally to warrant a cheaper built/less expensive rig. I would rather pay a bit more to travel than to use a BC that is not built as well as a regular BC. Not to mention, most people I have spoken to about a travel BC only use it to travel so you would need to be comfortable two different BC's.
9. Covered in #3.
10. Shears are inexpensive and cause less hassle at the airport or when getting on board a cruise ship.
11. Covered in #3.
12. Covered in #3. That is until you get a really nice piece of actual luggage.

As far as your *Note goes. If you spend the time, effort and money to get into this sport and then not take good care of your own gear then you should just rent everywhere you go so that you are wasting a ton of cash. Saltwater will destroy your gear if not cleaned properly after each use.

Thanks for the advice. As for the camera, it's a no brainer for me. If my topside SLR broke, I would postpone a vacation until it was replaced - I don't see the point of going on a vacation without one. Indeed, I would rather not go on vacation at all rather than go without a camera. A similar mindset applies to diving. If I see something amazing while diving without a camera, would I be happy and excited to have at least seen it? Nope, I'd be disappointed and hitting myself for a long time (maybe forever) for not having shot it. I would rather have not seen it all. Different people have different priorities, I suppose. Maybe I'm just weird. However, I will note there are a few exceptions to this: when learning new skills (ie cave diving, wreck diving) I might leave behind my camera until I felt more comfortable. As for regular rec diving, I'm comfortable enough (but far from perfect) with buoyancy, etc. so as to not be distracted by lugging around the camera.

As for the rest, I find it interesting that regs are so low on the list. I can understand that with the BC/wetsuit, but it seems that SB members often recommend buying your own reg early. In terms of the safety stuff, it makes sense. It's just that we've been spoiled on every dive thus far with DMs who would figuratively (and in one case literally) handhold us through the entire dive. In fact, diving without a DM escort seems a bit intimidating, but that's a subject for a whole 'nother thread.

I do wonder why everyone puts the mask so high on the list though. Do people really have that many problems with fitting a rented mask? (actually, my wife does, but I always figured she was the exception).

If you can handle the camera at this point in your skill set then why not take it but based on what I have read here on SB and what I have felt like underwater so far that would be the last thing I would be thinking about down there for a while.

As you can see by my list, Reg's are a high priority to me. I want good quality reg's to dive with. Do you have to buy everything all at once? No, it would be nice but not everyone can afford to do that.

I can speak for a proper fitting mask. On my second dive for OW I had loosened my mask because it was uncomfortably tight. That was a PIA all by itself then to have it too loose was an even bigger PIA because I had to pay attention to clearing it every few seconds. That combined with the breathing problems (due to lung congestion which did not feel bad on the surface but got worse @ 20') caused my anxiety level to go thru the roof. Proper fitting gear of any kind will make a huge difference under water.

This is all just my opinion and I sure there are folks out there that will question my thoughts here. These are just lines of thought I have gained so far from talking to others, personal although limited experience and reading peoples posts here on SB.

Good luck with your diving,
LowDrag

Cosmographer

February 4th, 2012, 06:49 AM

Thanks for the input, LowDrag. Actually, I have to admit, I'm awfully tempted to buy a wetsuit first - maybe it's the fashion bug in me, I don't know - but I'm trying to be disciplined about my purchases. I suppose I could buy a lot of the stuff as a set, but I really don't want to be one of those people selling off all their gear on Craigslist or in garage sales because despite their initial enthusiasm, things got in the way of their diving.

As for the mask, now that I think about it, I would really like to get those neoprene pads rather than use the rubber straps that the masks come with. I guess that's a good enough reason to get my own mask even if rentals fit me just fine.

Regarding the camera, oddly enough, I find that it enhances my control underwater. I'm forced to practice buoyancy control in various body positions in order to shoot subjects. Far better practice than fin pivots, imo, which no one does throughout an entire dive anyway.

PS. As for the regulator, it's not so much an issue of me not caring about the maintenance, but more about how to care for it properly. It seems like a complicated piece of gear, and when it comes to such critical equipment, I would think experts would be better at maintenance than a noob - then again, maybe it's not as complicated as it seems?

Searcaigh

February 4th, 2012, 08:11 AM

@ OP, I see that you are based in HK, lots of great diving a short flight away, however lots of dodgy dive ops too.

I too cannot dive without a camera, it's a no brainer for me, no camera no dive, but then again I have been taking u/w photographs and video almost since I started diving. The key is that without good buoyancy control I would never have taken a camera underwater, I think I morphed into a fish during my 4 open water dives, it has never been an issue for me.

Mask/Fins/Boots should be an immediate purchase.
Second would be a wetsuit
Third would be a regulator, I generally don't trust rentals when it comes to something going wrong at 30M, I had a second stage fall apart on me once.
Rental BC, can live with that, but prefer my own, I know where all the controls are without thinking about, not all BCs are the same, and I have seen many rentals in poor condition.

Other small things such as a knife or line cutter as well as an SMB are mandatory, why rely on somebody else, you should be self sufficient, as you might be too busy taking a shot of a nudibranch in low viz conditions and suddenly realise you can no longer see your insta-buddy or the group you are diving with, been there done that got the T-shirt.

Finally use your tables, they don't need batteries and can't fail underwater. You should also have a decent watch that works to 50M. If you can obtain a PADI Wheel, use that, much better than a standard table, but not sure that it is still made.

Good luck with your u/w photography and diving and dive safe.

RTee

February 4th, 2012, 10:07 AM

1) Mask/fins/booties (and snorkel if planning to snorkel)...I consider them to be like underwears...Very personal items that you want to fit properly
2) Regs...because you know what has been in, through, condition and the last time it was serviced
3) Toss up between BC/BP&Wg and thermal protection. One is for fit and proper trim and the second...don't know what others have done in them
4) safety equipment (whistle, shear, SMB, compass)
5) Dive computer ...because up to this point you should still be able to go diving just using a watch, depth gauge and tables
6) camera...come on seriously no camera/no diving. It baffles me that some folks would rather be miserable at home rather than go diving and relax just because they have no camera. Better you then me...camera/no camera I am still going diving.
7) last...gloves and knives because most marine parks do not allow them

Cosmographer

February 4th, 2012, 11:20 AM

Hahaha, we'll just have to agree to disagree on the camera thing. Actually, it's partially a wife thing too, since she wants pics more than me, lol. As for the gloves, after dealing with stinging crap so often despite having done so few dives, I'll be taking them with me regardless of what the marine parks say (unless they can prove to me that I won't be stung) - Having open wounds/blisters/sores is a health hazard, imo, and looking out for one's health comes first (ok, so maybe it's not really that big of a health hazard, but that's my story and I'm sticking to it!)

Bob DBF

February 4th, 2012, 12:28 PM

I'm not as hung up on the camera if you are already a photographer, because your farmiliarity with the camera leaves leaves room to focus on your diving, especially if you are taking snap shots. As long as diving trumps pictures it should work out OK.

1) Mask, fins, snorkle, gloves, booties, and wetsuit. I put the basics and exposure protection togather because you can now go diving without the tanks, and all need to fit you well to be comfortable in the water. You can get them a bit at time, if so, pick up safety gear in between the bits.

2) Safety gear starts with a safety sausage, whistle, and mirror. Shears and a line cutter are good, especially where you can't carry a knife. Without a kinfe, your buddy will feel more secure around agressive sharks:D.

3) Reg set with gauges and timer. Tables work, but if you dive a lot in a day you might want to pick up a computer or list it on #2.

4) BC, whatever kind you like.

5) Then the addiction sets in!

In closing, research what you are buying, try it out, talk to other divers about their gear preferences, search ScubaBoard, and try to get a good deal when you buy. If you are comfortable in your gear it makes diving easier.

Bob
----------------------------
It is necessary for us to learn from others' mistakes. You will not live long enough to make them all yourself.
Hyman G. Rickover

TSandM

February 4th, 2012, 02:59 PM

I wouldn't have bought the camera first, but that's because I have seen so many new divers who can't maintain buoyancy control and have poor situational awareness. A camera makes all that worse.

My approach to gear is simple: The first things you buy are things that have to fit to work. Mask is number one, because a leaking mask is at best an annoying dive. Exposure protection would be number two, because if wetsuits don't fit well, they don't insulate. Getting cold is miserable and can cost you dives.

Safety gear would be number two. If you dive off boats, you ALWAYS run the risk of surfacing away from the boat. Even if you go with a guide, there is no guarantee that the guide will get you back to the boat. I've even done a DRIFT dive (where the boat is supposed to chase you) where the boat captain misread the currents, and was on the other side of an island when we surfaced. Signaling gear can make the difference between a short wait and a long drift or swim, or worse. I carry an SMB, a mirror, and a DiveAlert on boat dives.

I include a dive computer in safety gear. Having your own, so that you know how it works, what the displays mean, and you can be sure the battery is good before a trip, is important.

Next, I would buy things where personal preference makes a difference. Fins, for example; you can rent fins that you can stick on your feet, but good fins make diving more fun, because they can make swimming easier or more precise. BCs can be rented in a variety of sizes, and if you don't fall at one of the ends of the bell-shaped curve in body proportions, you can find something that will fit. But having one that's COMFORTABLE and familiar is awfully nice. Lights are handy gadgets, because deep water has reduced illumination. They bring out color and can help you find cryptic critters. Having your own means you can have one you find easy to carry and which has the kind of light and beam you prefer -- and it may be more likely to WORK than a rented light :)

So, that's my take on things. Of course, I own all my own gear and haul it everywhere. Who needs clothes on a dive trip, anyway?

koozemani

February 4th, 2012, 03:18 PM

So, that's my take on things. Of course, I own all my own gear and haul it everywhere. Who needs clothes on a dive trip, anyway?

I've been trying to convince the gf of that. Granted her clothes take up a lot less room than mine do, but she compensates by packing twice as many.

Scuba_Noob

February 5th, 2012, 02:39 AM

I based my buying priority on cost saved per dive in rental gear (not necessarily the best method). And then I prioritized based on comfort and safety. Also, factor in the variable of finding deals (a lot of my stuff was based on jumping on deals I saw on sites like Craigslist).

Thus, I got my my reg/octo set and BCD first - save $40/trip. Also, it allowed me to get used to my own regs/BCD and know them thoroughly. I got my drysuit next (a wetsuit for you, probably) - save $40/trip. Then mask/fins/snorkel and weights. Then the compass/knife and other safety tools. Then tanks when I saw deals. Camera last after I was comfortable with my buoyancy. Now after buying an air card (one year), every shore dive is free.

Like I said, not necessarily the best method, as I did not research some buys thoroughly. I am happy with almost all of my gear, though. I did replace my fins, and I will eventually replace my BCD. However, the thought of spending $90 per dive trip on rentals was enough motivation to quickly get my own gear.

DivemasterDennis

February 6th, 2012, 11:09 AM

Based on OP's numbers, the purchases, in my humble (yet correct) opinion should be in this order:
4-6-5-3-8-7-12-11-9-10-1. Cosmographer can line up all the responses and find where there is consensus up through the first few items at least. Buy those first, then assume everything else is more personal preference than professional guidance.
DivemasterDennis

Cosmographer

February 6th, 2012, 01:05 PM

Thanks to everyone so far for the good advice. It seems like the general consensus is to start with mask/snorkel/fins etc. so I'll do that. Regarding everything else, there seems to be some disagreement, so I may use the cost/savings approach mentioned and choose follow-up purchases based on finances (things that can be had for a great deal or things that will save me the most money in terms of rentals). DivemasterDennis, I am a bit surprised that you place safety/signal devices so low on the list relative to others. Would you mind sharing your reasons for that? After reading the first few posts, I was going to re-prioritize those devices, so I'd be interested to hear contrary arguments.

March 22nd, 2012, 09:36 AM

I would agree for the most part with TSandM. I am taking a similar approach as she describes, and I still do not have all my gear, but I am close.

The first piece of equipment was the mask. Critical for me because I wear prescription lenses though. Being able to see is important. I ended up getting the snorkel and fins too in a package.

Then I bought a dive computer when my OW class had finished. It's a great safety tool.

I rented equipment all last year, and only bought 2 more things: a compass, and gloves. I really encourage you to rent gear from different locations and try different configurations. I did that, and discovered a few things that I know made my next purchases easy to decide. For instance, I realized that I wanted a back-inflate BCD vs a jacket style BCD. I also realized I wanted to skip the wetsuit and go right into a drysuit. I tried a few different brands of regulators and found out I really like the HOG ones.

Next for me was exposure protection. This year I bought a drysuit/undergarments, and the hood. I also think a knife and a light are important at this point, so I got those too.

I wanted to get a regulator next, but I ended up skipping it, because I found a great deal on a BCD.

Now it's just the regulator and the tank. That will probably be next year's purchase, because my budget for this year is gone!

I also still want a GoPro video camera, but I put this really low on my list. My crappy buoyancy would make for a really bad video anyway.

eternaljonah

March 22nd, 2012, 10:22 AM

mask and computer. mask because its fun to see well and computer because every one always has their own dive profile and i don't like bubbles in the blood.

buddhasummer

March 22nd, 2012, 10:51 AM

Camera equipment last. I would buy mask and wetsuit first for reasons others have already mentioned. I am a odd small size so for me boots, gloves and fins next. Safety gear would be next on my list. A computer 3rd as its nice to have all info in one place, ascent rate, N2 loading etc, especially if doing multiple dives. Regulator next as I have no idea how well maintained hire gear is. All the rest of the gear in no particular order. A bag is nice because carrying all items in your hands to dive site is difficult. I too own all my own gear and take it everywhere I go. I love owning all my own gear, it's what I like, well maintained by me, and enables me to dive more often. I have bought most gear several times but bar wanting an OLED computer I think my set up is as perfect for me as it can get. I'd buy a light before the camera too.

AaronRiot

March 22nd, 2012, 11:12 AM

I'm pretty new too, I was lucky enough to be able to take care of all my initial OW gear in one shot aside from the mask fins and snorkel that were required for my OW course. I was going to get a camera because I too would like to take pics/video of my explorations. After reading a number of threads here on SB I've decided against it even though I feel quite comfortable in the water and can afford one. I would rather take the time to become a master with my buoyancy control etc. and know my gear like the back of my hand before adding an additional task. For both my safety and the preservation of the environment I'm so interested in photographing. Worst thing I can think of is getting over confident, getting close, and breaking something 10x my age. That would be a split second tragedy. Or looking in the viewfinder a few extra seconds and losing the group and my buddy (not to mention all my redundant air!).

I did however come up with a compromise! I am positive that on most dives I will find myself in a group. Many of whom will be toting along cameras. So I'm bringing my email address, and, a big jumpdrive (if we're at the same resort chances are they might share the pics with me there, and maybe a drink too). I also see it as a good way to make some new friends :)

That's just me though. I like to take things slow, one step at a time. It's like guitar, the song won't sound good unless you've mastered all the chords right?

If I were to do it again,

1.Mask fins snorkel
2.Your main system - reg/bc/comp
3.The suit(s)
4.Lights, reel, smb, cutting tool

Good luck!

diverrex

March 22nd, 2012, 11:15 AM

I'd take into consideration where you will be diving, the typical water temp, typical type of dives and how you get there. If you need to fly everywhere to dive I'd consider leaving bulky and heavy items like BC's and fins to later. If you dive in current good fins are important but for typical leisure diving I could dive in about in any rental fin and be fine. I love my BP/W but as long as a BC inflates and deflates I am fine to dive in it. I'm only willing to dive with high quality ops anyhow so they also usually have good rental gear. Look into where you think you may be diving, they may not let you wear gloves, despite your protests some places won't let you wear them unless you have a doctors note of why medically you need to. I never wear gloves in warm water. My priority list would be something like:

1. Mask - cheap and small to carry. You don't want a leaky uncomfortable mask.
2. Computer - when do very multilevel dives without a computer you end up doing trust me dives with whoever has a computer.
3. Safety equipment - knive/shears, whistle/mirror and SMB. All small and relatively low cost. Having said that during typical easy vacation dives I often don't take those items on the dive.
4. Either a reg or wetsuit. Having a reg that breathes well and you trust is important. If you dive in 80F+ any rental wetsuit should do. If below 80F then you may want a good one that fits well.

I always haul all my gear around but when I consider going far and then maybe only doing a day of diving at that location I'd take mask, computer, reg and wetsuit only and leave the rest behind, renting a bc and fins.

You don't want to pee in your wetsuit but would rather in a rental? Would you rather be wearing a wetsuit someone else peed in? Seriously how well do you think they wash out those rental wetsuits? They slosh them around in a tank with other wetsuits peed in by other people. Peed in or not I always take my wetsuit back to my lodging and give it a good washing in the shower, plus I like to dry it out good for the next day's dive, something that doesn't always happen with rentals.

buddhasummer

March 22nd, 2012, 11:38 AM

I'd take into consideration where you will be diving, the typical water temp, typical type of dives and how you get there. If you need to fly everywhere to dive I'd consider leaving bulky and heavy items like BC's and fins to later. If you dive in current good fins are important but for typical leisure diving I could dive in about in any rental fin and be fine. I love my BP/W but as long as a BC inflates and deflates I am fine to dive in it. I'm only willing to dive with high quality ops anyhow so they also usually have good rental gear. Look into where you think you may be diving, they may not let you wear gloves, despite your protests some places won't let you wear them unless you have a doctors note of why medically you need to. I never wear gloves in warm water. My priority list would be something like:

1. Mask - cheap and small to carry. You don't want a leaky uncomfortable mask.
2. Computer - when do very multilevel dives without a computer you end up doing trust me dives with whoever has a computer.
3. Safety equipment - knive/shears, whistle/mirror and SMB. All small and relatively low cost. Having said that during typical easy vacation dives I often don't take those items on the dive.
4. Either a reg or wetsuit. Having a reg that breathes well and you trust is important. If you dive in 80F+ any rental wetsuit should do. If below 80F then you may want a good one that fits well.

I always haul all my gear around but when I consider going far and then maybe only doing a day of diving at that location I'd take mask, computer, reg and wetsuit only and leave the rest behind, renting a bc and fins.

You don't want to pee in your wetsuit but would rather in a rental? Would you rather be wearing a wetsuit someone else peed in? Seriously how well do you think they wash out those rental wetsuits? They slosh them around in a tank with other wetsuits peed in by other people Peed in or not I always take my wetsuit back to my lodging and give it a good washing in the shower, plus I like to dry it out good for the next day's dive, something that doesn't always happen with rentals.

+1, I don't rent suits, a peed in wetsuit smells rank. I never pee in my wetsuit, and agree putting on yesterdays wet wetsuit is not fun especially if the weather is chilly.

diverrex

March 22nd, 2012, 12:09 PM

Regarding a newbie with a camera. I took one of those cheap disposable underwater cameras with me on our 4th OW check out dive. Even though a little blue I have a great series of photos of my wife with our instructor at 60 FSW and my wife with mask on, removing mask, and replacing mask. Then when we surfaced our instructor used that camera to take a photo of my wife and I beaming smiles ear to ear as he said we were "the two newest certifed divers on the planet". Seven years later those photos taken with a $20 disposable still hang in my wife's office and mean more to us than any I have since taken with over $10K of DSLR gear on hundreds of dives.

I started using a point and shoot on dive 25 and have always used a camera since. I also think that UW photography helped with my bouyancy training.

fjpatrum

March 22nd, 2012, 01:29 PM

This question (or variants thereof) must have been asked numerous times, but after hours of searching, I could not find a thread on point, so forgive me if it's been discussed before - I did try! :D

As a newly certified diver who would love to dive every month (but more likely will end up doing it every other month), I am not sure what gear to purchase first. I need to fly to reach any worthwhile dive location, so weight and size is an issue. I'm not asking what type of gear to purchase (tons of threads on that) but rather, what order I should do it in. I definitely don't want to splurge on everything all at once (figure that as a beginner, I should get to know what I like and don't like first) - not to mention that this would save some money upfront.

So putting together various hints and tips scattered across SB, I've come up with a list of things I will buy in the order I think I should buy them. Any comments or advice would be much appreciated.

UW camera system (what can I say, it's a priority for me; wouldn't want to dive w/out one - already purchased)
Gloves (Only 9 dives so far, but been stung by jellies or something numerous times on several dives, leaving me miserable and itchy for days)
Dive Computer (Even though I passed OW, I still hate using tables. I know, I know - so sue me :D)
Mask (Never had an issue with rented masks, but seems this is high up on everyone's priority list)
Regulator (Less quality/maintenance issues with own reg*, and don't have to use a used mouthpiece)
Fins/booties (Mostly for convenience - I don't like the foot-fitting fins carried by most dive ops)
Wetsuit (Cumbersome - also I'd rather pee in a rented suit than my own - kidding! ... sort of)
BCD (Cumbersome, also would like to try out a rental BP/W before deciding)
Signaling (Mirrors, whistles, SMB - low because all our dives have been private w/DM - should this be higher up?)
Knife (Again, always had a DM close by - while nice, in hindsight, the DMs have probably become a crutch for us)
Compass (For whenever we get around to doing a navigation course)
Dive travel bag (Don't really see a need for this when I can buy a Briggs & Reilly bag with a lifetime warranty covering wear and tear - even for salt water damage. Am I missing something here?).

*Note: I'm not convinced this holds true for a noob since I probably will end up taking poorer care of my reg than an experienced dive op.

Does this look like a reasonable order in which to buy gear?
I haven't read the whole thread but I'm guessing you're going to get a lot of beef for #1. Personally, I agree with you wholeheartedly and I have always had a camera with me diving or snorkeling. It's additional task loading and causes buddy issues, to be sure, but if you're aware of that going into it, then you can plan accordingly.

I bought mask fins and snorkel set in Thailand for $25 US. I've had that set for a long time and the set I had before that I paid a similar price too, so there's no reason to spend a lot on those. I'd personally buy those first. Why rent when you can buy so cheaply? US Divers sells "snorkeling" kits here in the USA for about $40 with open heel fins, mask, snorkel and carry bag. I'm sure you can find something similar in stores in HK, though I didn't look for anything like that last time I was there visiting in-laws.

Similarly wetsuits are not expensive compared to renting them and you will be far more comfortable in your own suit that other people haven't peed in and you know fits you well. Again, they don't have to be expensive, as long as they fit well. I've bought wetsuits for as low as $50 new.

After that I'd buy regs and BC. They don't have to be expensive and I wholeheartedly disagree with your assertion that rentals will be better cared for because people simply mistreat rental equipment. I don't know why but they do. Having your own regs and BC will allow you to be familiar with them, and figure out (more easily) where you like everything stowed. Personally I'd buy the BC before the regs because I find those to be more important to an individual for comfort on a dive. I've rented regs from a few places for various reasons and never had any problems (though I wasn't in Asia at the time). BCs on the other hand, tend to be more easily damaged and less often replaced because people don't see them as life support.

I'd go ahead and get a compass and SPG with the regs, though dive computers I'd probably wait on unless you get a really good package deal.

Knives are personal choices and I don't carry one. I carry EMT sheers and a Trilobite "ez-cutter" style line cutter. I think total cost for those was about $30 US but they can be had cheaper. Similarly you can get a DR "Open water essentials" type kit and get all your "emergency" gear in one package for about $100. Cutting Tools and Jon Line - Dive Gear Express (http://www.divegearexpress.com/tools/cutting.shtml)

The last thing I will say is consider used gear. It's a great way to reduce your costs and still get all the gear you need/want. All my "essential" gear, regs, BC, computers, tanks, were bought used. Only my accessories have been purchased new. I have enough equipment to kit 3 divers and have paid about $1200 total.

So here's the way my priority list went:

1) Mask, fins, snorkel (actually already owned sets)
2) Wetsuit (actually already owned several)-- booties, gloves, and hoods fall in this category for me.
3) BC
4) Regs and console (including compass and spg)
5) Accessories--SMB, cutting tools etc ---knowing what I know now I'd put these as #3
6) Computer (I actually got one with my regs because I bought them together used)
7) Camera--I've always dived with one but only because I had one for surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking long before I started diving. If I didn't have one already this would have been (and was when I got a new one) last thing I purchased.

I've never bothered with buying a dive bag... I have too many forms of duffles and luggage to bother with a "dive specific" gear bag.

nes999

March 22nd, 2012, 09:31 PM

This is jst my opinion I wouldnt buy anything until you learn what your into. It would suck to spend all that money then find out your into cave diving or wreck diving. My first purchase was 2 Use Al 80's because I got them for a steal.

RonFrank

March 22nd, 2012, 10:47 PM

I think if you have the money to dive, then buy what you want as that is what people do anyway. The whole prioritization of gear is absurd since the priorities change with every gear purchase. I could provide a very nice list which you could ignore! I'll tell you what I did.... I bought everything used except my computer, mask, reg and 3mm. I then replaced all my stuff over time except the computer and reg.

As I purchased used I made money on the sale, but it is not uncommon for long term divers to go through one or more sets of gear before they discover what they like.

Bob DBF

March 22nd, 2012, 10:56 PM

As I purchased used I made money on the sale, but it is not uncommon for long term divers to go through one or more sets of gear before they discover what they like.

Still looking. The perfect rig is a moving target, unless you have someone dictating what you must use.

Bob
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I may be old, but I’m not dead yet.

bennettjensen

March 23rd, 2012, 01:12 AM

I noticed no one is putting tanks on their lists, is the general consensus to rent tanks?

diverrex

March 23rd, 2012, 01:52 AM

The OP said he had to travel to dive so tanks were not relevant. For local diving having your own tank makes it much more convienent to dive versus picking up and dropping off at the dive shop and pay for themselves over time. Plus you get the tank size and characteristics you want, for instance I use a HP 130 tank, not many (if even any) shops around here rent that tank.

RTee

March 24th, 2012, 10:59 AM

I noticed no one is putting tanks on their lists, is the general consensus to rent tanks?

It all depends where you do intend to do your diving...If you want to start purchasing diving equipment with a diving trip in your close to intermediate future, you will have spent a fair chunk of money on something you will not bring along...tanks. Generally speaking those are provided or can be easily rented with very limited side effets beside a leaking oring that can be changed in less than a minute provided somebody has spare ones. In my case, tanks were the last big items I purchased.

LowDrag

March 24th, 2012, 12:19 PM

Reading back through this thread has really shown me that what many people here have said in past threads. I thought I knew what I wanted in the beginning and I have changed my mind so many times about the gear that I want for myself. It's funny to see differences of what I have posted here in past threads and what I am considering now for gear purchases and set up.

kimbalabala

March 24th, 2012, 02:02 PM

The only item that I strongly believe you should own from day one is your computer. The differences in brands and generations of brands can be subtle or huge. If you're an experienced diver (and I'm not putting myself in that category) then perhaps you can adjust to whatever is shown on the face of the computer. I want to be able to look at the thing and know exactly what I'm seeing and how it impacts my dive. I don't want to have to take the time to ask "is that my air pressure or the time?" or "I wonder what that alarm meant?" - that's dangerous and a pain in the backside. Also, take the time to read the manual and practice using the computer while on dry land.

diverrex

March 24th, 2012, 06:38 PM

MMM

March 24th, 2012, 10:51 PM

A significant factor is where you will be diving. And I will use Cozumel as my reference point since that is where I have done most of my diving...in fact all of my diving since first "discovering" it 10 years ago. For the most part, you can rent pretty good BCDs and regs here. Boats are pretty good at picking you up and having a DM in the water with you changes your needs.

That said, here is what I would start with and this is definitely a "do as I say and not as I did" comment. First, as many others have said: mask. You are miserable on a dive without one that fits and especially if you need any prescription elements. Second a FULL wetsuit. Yes you can rent them (I did b/c my first choice of a 3 mm shorty was inadequate protection from in water critters and for warmth) but the fit may be off and although they may SAY they are a 5 mm, due to usage, more like a 3mm, all of which affects your comfort. Having said that, if you are a brand new diver, your bottom times may be short due to less efficient breathing and maybe you don't need that extra warmth. Third, a computer. I want to know how it works. And don't skimp. A good computer will last you a very long time provided you buy one that is at LEAST nitrox compatible and not overly liberal. You will NEVER regret your computer. If you get one that is air integrated, then you will probably want to buy your regs at the same time. Otherwise they are your next purchase. After that BCD. Fins? Meh. You can rent them but I have skinny narrow feet and wanted to make sure I had something that fit me, so they were an early purchase. But YMMD. I had over 100 dives before I bought a camera as I wanted to get proficient at basic diving first.

I now have several wetsuits in various thicknesses, beanies, and hooded vests. When purchasing them, think of how easily you can don and doff them. It takes me about 15 or 20 minutes to put all my stuff on!

Cosmographer

March 25th, 2012, 06:09 AM

After considering all of these opinions, I decided on a mask first (after the camera of course ;)), but as luck would have it, the atomic frameless which gets so many good reviews here and seemed to fit ok in the shop leaked like a sieve and made my dive miserable. I asked my instructor if he would like to try it since he was complaining about his old mask leaking as it got older. So we swapped masks, and lo and behold, we were both very happy with our respective loaners. A pair of gloves also saved my day as it protected my hands from being torn up by the barnacle-encrusted buoy chain that I had to hang on to for dear life while wreck diving in a gnarly current.

Anyway, after the mask, we got dive computers because we will be having a lot of multiple dive days. Since the computers are AI, we got regulator sets because not all rentals have multiple high pressure ports for the transmitter. Finally, we are purchasing fins because often, rentals don't fit well - lost one rental fin already as a result of poor fit.

Since we fly to all of our dive sites and never check-in bags, we opted against the bcd and wetsuit for now. This may change as the Zeagle wicked lite gets rolled out, so we'll see. Knives are out for the same reason. Other accessories are on the list, but all of our dives thus far have been with private boats and DMs, so we haven't felt a pressing need for SMBs, etc.

Going back to the camera thing, I have to say that I am glad I did not follow the general consensus of the board. My buoyancy has always been good from day 1 (DSD), and by now, it's pretty close to perfect, if I do say so myself. As long as I remember to keep an eye on my buddy, photography hasn't inhibited my diving a single bit. That said, my wife's buoyancy control is still mediocre and I would never recommend that she use a camera when diving (at least not yet). So it really depends on the person, IMO. But aside from that, the advice has been very educational and has really helped to de-mystify the buying process.