Gear - Help

OneDeGo · 06-25-2006, 09:47 PM

I've just come back from Hautulco last week, where i qualified as a PADI Open Water Diver. I'm already really feeling the need for more diving already, but am admitting that i'll have to do it in cooler, UK waters...

I am currently looking into equipment purchase to reduce the price of hire...

My issue is, i'm not sure what order to buy things in... i'm on a very limited budget, but already have my mask & snorkel...

At the moment, i'm looking at boots and open heel fins as well as the Suunto Gekko dive computer... but what i need is assistance on what order i should be looking at buying things... I'm currently in the process of losing weight, and anticipate within the next 12 month to lose a considerable amount of weight, so would be reluctant to buy anything expensive that would swallow me in a few months...

Can anyone advise on the order that i should be buying stuff, and also recommend some cheap options?

Thanks!!

**glynneco** · 06-25-2006, 10:17 PM

I would talk to your local shop. They may have some packages of equipment at reduced a price. If that is still to much I would buy a regulator first (first, second stages and SPG). Then a dive computer. A BC. Lastly your wet suit.
Check out Henderson they have a 7mil suit that can stretch tremendously to accommodate a variety of shapes and sizes.

Try the packgage deal if you can swing it. Leave the dive computer for later if you must. You want to get out of rental gear as quickly as you can.

Congratulations on the new c-card! Good diving and be safe.

**Resqdivemedic** · 06-26-2006, 12:23 PM

I agree with glynneco, check with your local dive shop. Most have rental gear which they will sell at a discount and it is well maintained. You can also try ebay. I have recently purchased a dive computer/spg console and an octopus for less than half the retail price and both are in excellent condition. Just make sure when you buy used gear to have it serviced before use.
Congrats on earning your c-card and dive safe.

OneDeGo · 06-27-2006, 10:45 PM

Thanks for the advice guys!

I've taken up on the advice, and have got me a Regulator, 1st & 2nd Stage from E-bay... and it looks like it's a real bargin too... My budget this month leaves me with just enough for Boots & Fins (which i wont shrink out of as i lose weight), and then that's it until next month.

I'll be on the look out for other bargins for Octopus and Console next.

Hopefully, wont be long until i have a full kit to dive with!!