I started off buying online because the salespeople at the LDS always quoted me full retail on everything, and it didn't occur to me that they would be flexible in their prices. That was mask, fins, snorkel, boots, and gloves for my ow class. After the class, he started giving us discounts, and I have bought my wetsuit, bc, reg, and computer from him. I showed him the best prices I could find online for the gear, and he came down almost to their levels. I don't mind paying a "little" extra to support my LDS. So, now I only buy online if it's something small that I want right away. (I'm still waiting on my UK Light Cannon, ordered from the shop three weeks ago.)