Welcome. A discussion on dive gear can rapidly go off in multiple directions. A few things that might be worth knowing:
1.) Mask fit is very individual, a cheap mask might work better for you than an expensive one, and you never know until you dive it.
2.) If you get a BCD, in addition to the traditional jacket version, there's what's called a BP/W. See SwimLikeTheFish's
Beginners' Guide to BP/W. If I got a jacket, I'd make sure it had 2 tank cambands, not just 1.
3.) A dive computer with a good interface is your friend. If you want budget and don't need air integration, one option is the Deep6 Excursion. If you want higher end and air integration, the Shearwater puck-style Perdix A.I. and watch-style Teric are well-regarded.
Now It's Time To Choose A Wrist Computer. If you are big on fitness, and would use such a thing topside, Garmin has a Descent MK2 watch that has dive computer function and topside functions.
4.) For fins, many of us use open-heel instead of full-foot fins. A number of divers here prefer paddle-style over split fins (I will not attempt to represent that debate here). As a wetsuit (not dry suit, where floaty feet can be an issue) diver, I find I tend to be foot heavy, which is not unusual. It aids my horizontal trim to use lighter fins. The Deep6 Eddy with spring straps is a fine choice with spacious foot pocket; thanks to
@Nemrod I am now more aware of the ScubaPro Go Sport, which sounds like a worthy contender.
OMS Slipstream Alternative.
5.) For open water diving away from land, get an SMB and spool. It's much easier to see at a distance from a boat than a little diver head.
6.) If you might do shore diving, get scuba boots with a medium or greater thickness sole. Makes walking geared up on iron shore more tolerable.
7.) Be wary of very high-priced 'prestige' regulators. I doubt you need to spend $1,500 on a regulator. A reputable model and brand is wise, but don't go overboard.
8.) For a cutting tool, the
Trilobite is very popular.
9.) You probably do not need a big dive knife. You may want a small one (or a line cutter or pair of EMT shears). If you get a knife, I personally consider it worthwhile to get one of the 'rust-proof' ones, and favor H1 steel over titanium.
Dive Knife Material vs. Corrosion: Titanium, H1, LC200N
Once you get through all that, you can ask about dive lights, AL vs. steel tanks and compare and contrast
the Nautilus Lifeline vs. a PLB!
Richard.
