Need an equipment 101 source

[pdive]

I am looking to buy my first set of equipment A.S.A.P. Before I head out I want to be armed with some basic knowlegde but I can't seem to find a single source on-line for the basics. For example, where can I find info about the differences between regulators (piston, diaphram...), wet suits (full, farmer john, wet dry...), BCs (jacket, plate, wings...) I think you get the idea. I know this place is great for getting folks' opinions on specific gear/brands, but I want some sort of equipment primer that will let me ask educated question and make sure what a dive center is selling me is actually what I want. www.scubadiving.com has random info about equipment basics if you go digging. Can someone please point me to a more consolidated source? Thanks!

 

[DiveTexas]

What kind of questions do you have? I'd be happy to answer em.... The biggest thing is find out what is right for you! I've been in the biz for a while, and when you get 3 experienced divers together to talk about gear, the only thing they will agree on is that the other two dont know what they are talking about! The biggest thing I can advise you is go into a store and ask any questions... you dont have to buy right then, or feel pressured into buying... go to the manufacturers websites and get info on specific... The biggest thing is develop a rapport with a salesperon you trust... I know that is sometimes a oxymoron (trusted salesman) but you will find one that you listen to what they say and then check out what they say, and its the same story. Dont be afraid to walk into a store and say "I have know idea about regulators... please teach me before I spend a bunch of money." If they dont start asking you questions like "what type of diving do you like to do", are you interested in deep diving, wreck diving, etc... then walk out cause they will try to sell you the special of the month, not what is best for you. If they dont give you what you are wanting, go somewhere else. Tell em thanks for their time, but you are not ready to purchase yet... and walk out. Talk to someone else... find out if they are consistant! Once again, the best piece of advice I can give you is find someone you trust and go to them. They can lead you on a path of exactlly what you need!

 

[ProfessorAronnax]

I think Scuba Mag is probably the best bet for gear reviews and info

 

[spectrum]

You have found the best source. Start devouring this and the gear forums. The search feature is your friend. This will take some seat time, there are no easy answers. Every gear configuration varriable has multiple viewpoints..

Becoming gear savvy is more work than getting certified to dive.

Pete

 

[ththooft]

Hello!
I would also encourage you to rent some different gear and try it out before you buy. For example, I love the back inflate BC's, but some people I dive with don't like them and prefer jacket-style. We've learned that by trying both out.
This forum is also a great place to learn a ton of information. It can be a little difficult to get a clear answer if you're looking for things like best design or best brand because there are so many opinions on here.

If you don't have a good LDS to go to, or even if you do, I would really recomend giving Larry a call at Scuba Toys. I've had several conversations with him, and he's been nothing but great. So far I've been very satisfied with all of my purchases from him, and if you do have any sort of problem they fix it very quickly.

I'd also be happy to help in any way that I can. It's pretty confusing out there at times. Another thing that really helped me is finding a group to dive with. You learn a ton about diving and diving gear.

Good luck! Let us know what quesitons you have.

 

[Divin'Papaw]

My biggest piece of advice would be to NOT rush into buying too much equipment until you've (1) done your research and (2) tried out the various types by renting. I spent 6 months doing my research (the vast majority of it here!) before buying my first BC, regulator and computer. If I hadn't of waited, and it was sure hard to do, I would have made the wrong choice and spent alot of money (more than I ended up spending) on the wrong equipment. Take your time, learn, determine what's best for the type of diving you'll be doing ... and then buy.

 

[K9trnr]

As others have said, try out a variety of equipment if at all possible. Rent equipment. As instructors if you can try theirs. Try your buddy's. Then, when you're ready to buy, you'll know what you like. Two other pieces of advice I'll give: don't let someone "sell" you something you don't want, and don't go cheap just because you save a little now. I ended up with a few sets of extra gear from upgrading year after year, and it cost me a lot more in the long run than starting with something I'd be happy with long term.

 

[K9trnr]

As others have said, try out a variety of equipment if at all possible. Rent equipment. Ask instructors if you can try theirs. Try your buddy's. Then, when you're ready to buy, you'll know what you like. Two other pieces of advice I'll give: don't let someone "sell" you something you don't want, and don't go cheap just because you save a little now. I ended up with a few sets of extra gear from upgrading year after year, and it cost me a lot more in the long run than starting with something I'd be happy with long term. You can also ask the store if they plan any big sales. There are a couple here that do annual sales, and they're worth waiting for...unless the shop cuts you a deal so you don't have to wait.

 

[K9trnr]

*sorry about the double post, the system (or my computer) seems to be narc'd or something*

 

[Dave in PA]

I'll have to echo the other's sentiments, talk to the guys in your LDS, ask what THEY dive in and how they like it. Ask what all they have dove in, too. See if it is different from what the shop carries. If you have more than one LDS, visit them all, see how they are laid out, if everything is orderly or is it a mess? Are the sales people helpful in answering questions about equipment. Read about specific equipment here and scuba lab.