Newly Certified Advice on Equipment

[TSandM]

I will offer that I own both MK25/S600s and Hogs, and I cannot tell the difference in how they breathe, down to 150 feet.

I would also second the recommendation for a backplate system. If you are an average-sized adult male and wear at least a 3 mil suit, you shouldn't have a problem with being overweighted in a stainless plate, and you only save about 3 pounds by going to a lighter one. One of the nice things about backplate systems is that you can buy a small, very streamlined wing for the warm water diving you are doing, and later, if you move somewhere where you need to dive colder water, all you have to do is a buy a bigger wing.

There are few things more delightful than a minimal harness, a light tank, and a very small wing in warm water. You feel as though you are flying!

[OzGriffo]

If you are considering the HOG regs, check out the specials this weekend. DiveGearExpress are doing a special on a single tank set for $290.00. In fact, you'd do well by checking out the BP/W as well due to the fantastic price. You could get everything you need (regs, BP & W) for less than the price of a moderately priced jacket BC.

[DivemasterDennis]

I agree LaPlenta knows his stuff. But as a contrast, I am an active working divemaster, and an avid recreational diver. I travel a lot and tote my gear with me. I am almost 59 years old. I also equip my 59 year old dive buddy and wife, Debbie. As for me, having been through a variety of equipment over the years and currently using 4 different rigs (cold water, teaching, pool, and my personal recreational stuff, I will tell you as a diver with you demographic profile I am a big fan of Sea Quest balance bc (weight integrated) and I like both the Sherwood Oasis (a very good first regulator for recreational diving, very durable) and also my Atomic Aquaticas Legend, even though I've had it for a few years. I also do not sell equipment and am not invested with any equipment manufacturers. I think you should get equipment from a location where you can try it out and try it on.m and also consider the following factors, not specifically
addressed above: 1. Get equipment you are comfortable in NOW for recreational diving. 2. Get equipment that you can have serviced near your home- that is, equipment for which a local dive center is an authorized dealer or service center. 3. Get equipment that has a track record of durability - of lasting for hundreds of dives (or more) if properly maintained. 4. Whatever you choose, be sure to have all equipment serviced annually ( or as specified by the manufacturer), and be sure to rinse and clear it all thoroughly after use. Good for you for getting equipped. You will enjoy diving more using your own stuff- stuff you are familiar with and that you know is of good quality and properly maintained. And remember, 50 somethings rule! (In a short time I will have to change that to 60 somethings, but for now, we're on the same team!)
DivemasterDennis

[skb0203]

Thanks for all the imput. I just bought my first gear. Got a set of scubapro mk25/s600 and a zeagle stiletto bcd. Your help and advice is greatly appreciated!!!!! I'm comfortable in both and they work well! I'm sure I will aquire more gear as my abilities. needs, and intrests change. Merry Christmas to everyone!!!!!!!

[RonFrank]

Nice! The SP reg is a solid performer. I really like the Zeagle for warm water diving. I also dive a Stiletto. If you ever need manufacture service Zeagle is in FL, and can do anything needed on site. One reason I dive Zeagle BC and Regs.