jsmith89:
I have done about forty dives and am finally getting around to buying gear. I already have all the basics (mask, fins, snorkel, booties, hood, gloves, ect.) I am planning on getting first a BC (BP/W) then a reg followed by computer (if money allows.) I will get a wetsuit and tanks later on. I only have 750 dollars to spend though. Is it possible to get a decent BP/W, Reg and Computer for $750?
-Jacobi
Assuming all new gear $750 is a little light even wihout the computer.
Most BPW configurations that I tallied came in close to $500, give or take 100. At best thats' $350 for the regulator.
$350 will buy a fine novice First and second stage and maybe an alternate but leaves you shy your instruments.
Skip the computer for now, your diving should not require it. Tables can do the trick until the level and/or intensity get high. Get full analog instruments for now. I know I have no intention of surrendering my analogs when I get my computer.
Starting with the BCD is good since it's the core of all that your mastering.
The Regulator is a good next item. As a novice almost anything will work well enough but it's good piece of mind to know where it's been.
As I said hold off on the computer.
As for the wetsuit watch your $$, you could end up buying the shop a new suit with your rental fees. At 40 dives you may already be there, try to leverage your patronage. Some shops will be very kind to divers who were steady rental customers. Have you been diving any gear that you're fond of and find to be in good condition? There may be a deal lurking there.
Also somewhere in there you need to add weights and at some oint consioder safety gizmos, sausage, whistle, whatever.
Study, think and decide. There are many good answers, you need the one that's best for you.
Pete
