Hi, from Hong Kong. Recently acquired my PADI license and I have the free time and the access to diving areas around Asia, so I thought I would buy my own gear, within reason.
I notice that some shops and some online stores sell scuba gear packages, some of them quite cheap (reasonable). My budget is within US$400 to US$1000 for a package that consists of regulator, BCD, dive computer, pressure gauges, compass.
I have seen some Mares packages for only US$460-US$640. I have seen some others, like Genesis, for a little more.
My problem: how do I know that I am getting a good deal? What makes a good regulator? What makes a good BCD? Why spend 800 if I can spend 450 and still get the same basic structure and access to underwater fun?
If anyone has any Consumer Reports ideas to give me, I would appreciate it. Trying to collect data.
I live by the maxim, simple is best, but I do know that in some areas, spending a little more gives you comfort, style, ease of use and other benefits.
I notice that some shops and some online stores sell scuba gear packages, some of them quite cheap (reasonable). My budget is within US$400 to US$1000 for a package that consists of regulator, BCD, dive computer, pressure gauges, compass.
I have seen some Mares packages for only US$460-US$640. I have seen some others, like Genesis, for a little more.
My problem: how do I know that I am getting a good deal? What makes a good regulator? What makes a good BCD? Why spend 800 if I can spend 450 and still get the same basic structure and access to underwater fun?
If anyone has any Consumer Reports ideas to give me, I would appreciate it. Trying to collect data.
I live by the maxim, simple is best, but I do know that in some areas, spending a little more gives you comfort, style, ease of use and other benefits.