Starter Tech Gear

[opti12206]

I am looking for my first set of dive gear. I am 100% sure I want to get into tech, possibly DIR/GUE method. I want a setup that can be configured for simple OW dives and later upgraded to full tech gear. I am going to start with just a single tank setup and upgrade from there. I want to be able to gain more experience diving a setup conducive for tech, before getting into it.

For backplate, wing, and harness I want Halycon. They seem like they make outstanding gear.

Regs are really where I have no idea. I want a set that works for for recreational SCUBA and also tech, that way I do not have to buy two complete sets of regs when I go tech. Preferably ones that aren't ridiculously expensive, but I know tech gear is higher quality, thus more expensive.

I have been looking at computers such as the Zeagle N2ition Dive Computer Zeagle N2ition Dive Computer 370-9001 with reviews at scuba.com I want a computer around $400 that will work for tech diving non helium based mixtures. I cannot afford a Delta P Technology VR3 HD Air/Nitrox Computer at this point, nor do I need one. I plan on being full extended range trimix certified in the next 5 years. The Zeagle has the ability to do two gas mixtures and obviously works as a good recreational computer.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
-opti12206

 

[PerroneFord]

I'll keep this brief:

1. Halcyon makes fine gear. Other manufacturers do also. But if Halcyon is what you want, then nothing wrong with that.

2. Lots of good regs out there. ScubaPro and Apeks make some of the more popular models. Dive Rite and Salvo are also quite popular. Many people like Atomics. Whatever you purchase, make certain you have reputable service near you if you can.

3. Tech gear is often cheaper than it's recreational counterparts. Bells and whistles add cost to gear. Recreational divers seem drawn to that. Tech divers want simple, bulletproof gear that works. This is a generalization of course.

4. Hold off on the computer for now. You won't use it nearly as much as you might thenk. Especially if you plan to follow the DIR/GUE route.

 

[Tortuga68]

Totally agree with 1-3

I think a dive computer would be good for an 'evolving' diver though; something like a suunto vyper say, that does air, nitrox and bottom timer at a reasonable price

 

[Meng_Tze]

Opti,
It is a good start to start working with BP/W and move on from there. My advise is to get a basic tech training soon since you will learn a lot about diving in general and equipment.

As a serious tech diver, you will end up with several sets of regulators. My advise is to settle on one or two brands/types. This way they become easier to service and inter change.

As for a computer, many people will advise not to buy one, or to only buy a Bottom timer. If you do decide you want a computer, get one that can also act as a bottom timer. This way you can start off as a computer and use it as a bottom timer later on.

 

[Rick Inman]

If you do decide you want a computer, get one that can also act as a bottom timer. This way you can start off as a computer and use it as a bottom timer later on.

I got lucky, because that is exactly what (accidentally) I did. I now have close to 800 dives on that computer, and 700 were done in bottom timer mode.

You can save $$ buying a bottom timer, which can be applied to other expensive stuff you don't want to skimp on...like regs and a good HID light. And quality instruction.

Like a lot of tech divers here on the board, I ended up buying my gear twice. The first time based on what my LDS told me to buy. The second time based on those people who are actually out there doing the kind of diving I want to do. So, IMHO, the best method of choosing gear is to hook up with others that are where you want to be and learn from them.

There is also a wealth of great info to be learned here on SB. If you do purchase gear that conforms with the DIR philosophy, you can usually apply your kit to anywhere, any kind of diving.

 

[Jimmer]

I'll just add for the computer, that the N2ition is a good choice. I have the Cressi version of that computer, and it handles 2 nitrox mixes, a gauge mode, is easy to read, and there is a DSS mount for it. Definetly a good computer for rec. and starting into tech.

 

[opti12206]

I want a computer for recreational diving as well so the N2ition seems like a good choice. Specifically what models of those above brands are technical regs. For the octo do I buy a second version of the primary reg or do I buy a cheap rec octo.

 

[PerroneFord]

Absolutely NOTHING in tecnhical diving is "cheap". You purchase the best you can afford. Note I did not say the most expensive. There is a difference.

I don't know anything about the N2ition. I have a Vyper. It works well. For recreational dives it's often in my pocket or in guage mode. I just can't see spending a boat load of money on expensive computers unless you want something specific. Like the Liquivision with live V-Planner. I'd spend real money for that under certain circumstances. Or if I was diving CCR and needed the computer to track that, a VR3 would probably be the choice.

For Regs:

ScubaPro Mk25/G250v, or Mk17/G250v are excellent
Apeks ATX/XTX are great, as is the old school DS4.
The Dive Rite RG3000/RG2500 are nice regs.
Any Salvo reg will do. They only sell regs aimed at tech divers
I don't know the numbers of the Atomics regs, so hopefully someone else will chime in.

 

[Dive Rite]

Regs are really where I have no idea. I want a set that works for for recreational SCUBA and also tech, that way I do not have to buy two complete sets of regs when I go tech. Preferably ones that aren't ridiculously expensive, but I know tech gear is higher quality, thus more expensive.

Hi opti12206,

Have a look at our Solution Finder for information about what to look for in a tech reg.

Good luck with your purchase!

Best,
Ag

 

[opti12206]

Would this be a decent setup for primarily recreational diving with the intent on going technical. Dive Rite Hurricane Regulator, RG3500 | From PrimeScuba.com Or am I better off just buying two Dive Rite Jetstream regulators. Could I use the octo on a purely technical rig. I am really not wanting to spend tons of money unless needed.