xiSkiGuy:
Did your instructors allow DIR gear configurations in class or did they suggest/require adjustments?
I feel that since this is in the DIR forum I should make the following disclosure. I am not a DIR, or GUE trained diver. I am however a TDI and NACD full cave diver.
My instructor did offer suggestions on my gear configuration, he also left me some room for personal choices. The things he would have required I already had set up "properly."
My gear configuration is pretty much in compliance with DIR standards right on down the line with two exceptions. I use a computer, two actually, of the same manufacture. These computers do not have a separate guage mode, but they always display bottom time, depth, and maximum depth, as well as other computer specific information. These computers NEVER lock me out, they always give me the information I need to dive tables OR the computer. The other difference is that my backup second stage is a TX50, this is identical to my primary and has an adjustment knob that is not reccommended on a DIR backup.
Do I see hostility in cave country, no. It has been several months since I was there however, since I am stuck in California right now. Do I have any hostility toward GUE trained divers, no. In my opinion all cave divers are highly trained and extremely proficient. I have observed in other areas that GUE trained divers place a higher emphasis on drills aimed at keeping up the skill level on all dives. I view this as a very positive aspect of the GUE philosophy.
Generally the comments that I have heard all over the country are actually aimed at a very small group of divers who are highly vocal about their GUE training.
I would be happy to dive in a cave with almost any cave diver regardless of training agency. I would base my decision on the specific diver and their skills and mindset, not the agency that got them there.
Mark Vlahos