I understand your problem. When I was looking to buy my equipment, I had similar problems as the LDS's I was talking to all gave me conflicting info and no one had any gear that I could rent to try that I was interested in buying. I ended up buying gear that I am now in the process of replacing (every bit of it). It certainly would have been better to get it all right the first time! I am now working with a different LDS that I am really happy with and whose advice I trust and that makes all the difference. So, I agree, talk to your LDS and if you are not 110% sure then go and talk to some other dive centers, talk to other divers, try different equipment whenever you can. It is much easier (and cheaper) to buy it right the first time. Plus, it is a great idea to support the dive center that you are diving with and training with. They can use your support. And, you get the warranties on the equipment that you buy from them that you will NOT get if you buy from Leisure Pro, etc.