eelnoraa
Contributor
The experienced divers on this board are quick to recommend buying used gear because they are comfortable doing so. I just bought some used regs I don't really need but I am going to service them myself and they will be like new. I don't really care if they freeflow like crazy when they arrive. A new diver does not have the knowledge to avoid getting screwed on a used gear purchase so should either rent for a while, buy new with warranty, or buy used from a reputable dealer or from an individual with the help of a very experienced friend.
While agree with you on used reg and BC, I think buying some thing used is very reasonable for OW, such as fins and snorkels. OW student shouldn't even buy reg or BC to begin with because they have no idea what they are getting. The usual required 5 personal items, what need to fit (mask, gloves, boots) needs to fit new or used (less likekly), but fins and snorkel, I will say grab from craiglist if you can find some.