Buying Equipment

[Scooter7285]

Hi, my name is Eddie and I was just recently certified and I wanted to get some of my own equipment. I was going from site to site to search for tips about equipment, but all of it looked the same to me. I don't want to spend too much money on equipment because I know I won't be diving 24/7, but I still want good quality especially in regards to regulators and octopuses. I was wondering if anybody had any advice or recommendations for good quality equipment for a low price for a beginning diver for me.

 

[herman]

Hi Eddie,

Welcome to scuba. I have several opinions on buying scuba gear, first, I do recommend that you END UP with your own equipment but I don't believe that you should buy all of your gear right off the bat. Instead,(with the exception of mask and maybe fins) rent gear from a reputable dive operation in your area and try out different types and styles and see what you like best. Another great option is to keep your ears open and buy some good used gear. Quality dive gear will last many years if it is maintained. For example,I just bought a full set of high quality gear for less than half price because someone took lessons, purchased a high priced set of gear and then found they did not want to continue diving. I got about $1500 of equipment for $700 and the dive computer only had 3 dives logged on it. If you do buy used gear, have it checked by a good dive shop before you use it. As for mail/web ordering....well, what happens if it does not fit or you have operational problems? You will find that a good diveshop is your best bet in the long run. ( try looking on http://www.gypsydivers.com for a dive shop view of mail order).In short, buy your own equipment, buy high quality equipment when you do buy but don't get in a hurry. Hope this helps.

 

[King_Neptune]

Scooter7285,

Ditto what herman said... That really is some of the best advice anyone could give you. Keep an eye on the local classified ads in your newspaper, you may also want to check in the AquaTrader.com online classified ads.

Im already jealous of herman and his dive computer with only 3 dives logged but you can find stuff like that all the time.

=-)

 

[Scooter7285]

Thanks so much for the advice, I'm sure my dad will appreciate the money saving part. Cya all on the flip side!

 

[Tampabay]

ha!

 

[WillHarm]

im dumb! last time I try and help ANYONE

 

[Tampabay]

HA HA!!!

 

[bwerb]

Any of you actually check the date of this question? I think perhaps it's now a moot point...

 

[gfisher4792]

Well, he might still be a newbie, four years after certification...

 

[Xanthro]

Any of you actually check the date of this question? I think perhaps it's now a moot point...

He's been waiting four years for a reply, and now you don't want us to help him?

Imagine his suspense.

Xanhtro