any knowledge of a suunto cobra 3?

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This isn't exactly on point, but I use a Suunto Cobra2 with the quick disconnect feature. The big knock on the Cobra2 is/was the electronic compass, which you have to hold level at all times for it it work. My understanding is the Cobra3 is supposed to have addressed that issue.

I rarely use the compass so it's not a big deal to me.

The quick disconnect feature works as advertised and worth the extra $$, imho.

The learning curve on the Cobra2 was pretty steep for me, ahem, but I'm reasonably happy with it. But Atomic Aquatics is supposed to be coming out with a computer soon, and since I'm a huge AA fan I'm definitely going to be taking a look at it.
 
I have both the Cobra 2 and Cobra 3. Both are fine computers and reliable. The RGBM algorithm is more conservative than what you will find in computers such as Oceanic and Aeris, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing, just something to know about. (I also have a couple Oceanic computers).
The big improvement of the Cobra 3 over the Cobra 2 is the electronic compass. In the 2, the compass was very finicky as to tilt. If you tilted it slightly it wouldnt work. The 3 has an improved compass and allows a pretty substantial tilt and will still work.
Take some time to learn the advanced features of the compass and you can navigate patterns pretty easily. The only issue is that the compass display only stays on for a short time. After that you need to push the button to put it back in compass mode.

My version of the Cobra 3 came with a download cable in the package. The software is fairly full featured and is nice if you want to check out detailed dive profiles.

I've been pleased with both my Cobra 2 and 3. If you have any specific questions I'll try to help.
 
If you can afford an air integrated computer, then it's well worth it. Again, you have to decide based on your normal dive profiles whether the rgbm algorithm suits you.
As for lasting- the standard warranty on Suunto computers is 2 years - at one time Suunto (aqualung) was offering a couple free battery kits when you purchased the computer. Ask your dealer about this. I dont know if they still offer that or not.
As an alternative, if you want a more liberal algorithm, I would suggest the Oceanic Pro Plus 2. I'm not sure how they compare price-wise so shop around.
I can tell you that Oceanic customer service is excellent.
 
You will notice that Oceanic has a significant online presence here on SB. Lots of stories here touting Oceanic's excellent customer service.
Aqualung (who distributes Suunto products in the US) has no presence here on SB -except maybe eavesdroppers. It certainly is their right, but it sure would be nice to have them here to answer questions about their products.
Aqualung makes good solid products as far as regulators are concerned. The Suunto computers are also solid devices.
Please note that Aqualung does not allow online sales - at least to get their warranty. That is not to say that warranties you may get through some online shops is not as good - just that aqualung may not warrant the product if you purchase online. If you are purchasing through a local dive store you will be just fine.
You will want to ensure that your dealer registers the product online for you (last I heard this needed to done through the dealer).

Enjoy!
 
do you think it is a good first computer... will it last me (i baby my stuff)

Do you plan on buying a "second" computer at some point?

If so, do yourself a favor and buy the SECOND one FIRST!

The most expensive dive gear you can buy is the stuff you got instead of what you SHOULD HAVE gotten!

(I've got a basement full of "first" golf clubs, "first" guitars, "first" cameras, "first" bicycles, etc to prove the point.)
 

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