Used Gear?

[manta6]

I am considering replacing my 10 yr old BC and am considering some purchasing used gear. As a woman, I am finding many women don't stick with diving and off load almost new gear on craigslist. Any suggestions? things I need to look out for?

 

[spectrum]

General condition..... As you mention you will have the pick of the many short timer female diver's cast offs so you should be looking for like-new. Check the fabric, zippers, clips and buckles for condition.

It needs to hold air. Inflate it when you arrive and stall for some chit-chat. It should remain firm for as long as you remain. If you have a cylinder and regulator bring it along to test the inflater under pressure. It should respond crisply but you know that.

Ask for the inflater hose, if they still have it. It may not match your existing hose and if it does then you will have a spare, also a good thing.

Use Ebay to track the selling prices of a number of comparable BCs that are similar to what you want. This will give you some real market data from which to negotiate. Offer low, as you mention they are often offloading at fire sale prices.

Pete

 

[herman]

If the BC does lose some air, don't write it off too quickly. More that likely its just an air dump leaking. A gain of sand in one of the deflator ports or a loose fittings are common causes of leaks and are simple to fix. Try to determine where the air is escaping.

 

[spectrum]

If the BC does lose some air, don't write it off too quickly. More that likely its just an air dump leaking. A gain of sand in one of the deflator ports or a loose fittings are common causes of leaks and are simple to fix. Try to determine where the air is escaping.

Good point.

Pete

 

[Stu S.]

Many women don't require a "Women's BC". My diving daughter (college student) wears a men's Xtra-small. It is a back inflate Aqua Lung and was used, but looked new. The guy at the dive shop couldn't sell it, due to the size. A bargain.

 

[DiveMaven]

Just make sure it fits properly before you purchase. A poor fitting BC is never a bargain at any price.

 

[manta6]

Thanks for all the feedback!

 

[kuma1720]

Just finished buying a used BC for myself on E-Bay. I knew what I wanted and waited until the right one surfaced and can say am very happy with the purchase. It was like new and had some extras (second air) to boot. So why not, most BC's are quite durable and are made for years of service.
If we were discussing a wet suit or computer then I would have another opinion.
Best of luck.