New Gear

[Max_Power]

Hello everyone, this is my first post in the UK Board. I have posted a couple of requests for advice on buying new kit from the main equipment board. I am re posting here to get a UK slant on things.

I am a novice diver, OW at the mo but AOW/Nitrox in a couple of weeks when I go to Sharm for the first time. At the end of that week I will have racked a total of just just 25 odd dives! I am now looking to buy some kit:

Suunto Vyper and possibly a V16 Proton reg set-up.

The diving I am planning to do will encompass all aspects, salt/fresh, tropical/UK winter. In the future I would like to get into deco and twin diving therefore I have resigned to save a little more before buying a BP/Wing instead of a lower end Stab Jacket.

Any advice from fellow Brits on these choices and recommendations appriciated.

Cheers in advance.

 

[Adrian Kelland]

Max Power

I can't comment on the Vyper and V16 as I dont use them. I know that Vyper has a good rep though. I use a pair of Apeks TX50 (not ATX) regs on DS4 1st stages, not the usual DST(turret) 1st stage. Very popular I understand, even though they might appear to be an old design. It's a proven one.

You mention twins\deco\uk diving. Good man there. A back plate/wing combo can be cheaper than a standard Jacket BC. £40 inc post for the Combro packplate, you have to do some filing yourself. Say £15 for webbing and D-rings etc. Dive Rite Recwing £155. Total £210. It is also possible to get an Aluminium BP for warmer climes/travel. There is a possible route coming up for a cheaper option along the lines of the Combro too.

As you're in Yeovil, you're pretty close to some great diving, and me (Exeter) if you want to try my setup. You might also want to get in touch with your local forces SAC, Naval Air Command, Yeovilton and Culdrose BSAC 0066. I am sure there are plenty of opportunities for free trips there ;-)

Naval Aviator - you lucky *******!

Adrian