Hello from Monterey

[FranksJacket]

Hi everyone. I am the newest member it appears. I joined to get a better understanding of the different gear. I just got certified a few weeks ago through Naui and I need to buy everything. Let me know if there is anything I should look for first!

 

[dwaters]

Welcome to the 'board and to SCUBA!!!

Drop on down to the equipment sections here and learn a bunch and while you're at it, feel free to drop on down to your local Nor.Cal. forum and soak up input from your peers and have fun diving at the same time.
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/norcal/

Ask, use the search, and listen to the many options and thoughts here...enjoy!!!

 

[Bob Vincent]

Hi ...

& Welcome to ...
:sblogo: ... :colours::colours:...

Remember the best equipment is what you like and feel good about. When asking what equipment everyone likes ... they are going to tell you there's is the best. Theres alot of info out there and you might want to look up tests from Scuba Diving Magazine on reg's to get a better understanding. Good luck!

 

[rsilva708]

Welcome to the board

 

[M.HARDY]

Hi There... Welcome Aboard!!
You just joined us and I see you've gotten some good advice..this board is full of good people with good advice. Don't rush into buying your gear..shop around and ask lots of questions
Good Luck and Enjoy!!

:dancingsnoopy:

 

[floridanewbe]

welcome aboard

 

[Peter_C]

Welcome to scubaboard

Start by posting in the local NorCal forum and find out what people are using for gear in our area.

You will find lots of the local kelp divers using a gear configuration like in this link below not just the tech divers. For one the longer hose makes it easier to air share and the hose being closer to the body keeps the kelp from snagging it.
Equipment Configuration

The prices are the same as your everyday BCD but the control both at the surface and underwater is much better with a back plate and wing. Ask Tobin from Deep Sea Supply for his recommendations as he is always helpful.

Many of the locals started in a jacket BCD then changed over to a different system, costing them a lot of wasted money. See this post for example. http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/norcal/263541-when-you-dont-dive-you-config-your-gear.html

Other good threads to read for your enjoyment.
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/norcal/264637-tank-size.html
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/norcal/266344-ken-dette-mocal-pics-stuff-what-great-trip.html
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/norcal/258304-dive-report-25-oct-08-mono-lobo.html

The best way to save money on a wetsuit is to buy a drysuit. There is no argument that most people whom regularly dive use a drysuit.