On Sat, 24 Jun 2000 10:13:26 -0700
Charley <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

Anyone else think $2995 is too much for this list??

Charly I would suggest you start by only buying the mask, snorkel and
fins to do your course. Then rent different brands of equipment [BCD,
Regs] to evaluate them for comfort etc:.. buying a wetsuit early may
also be worthwhile.
The biggest cost is BCD, Regs and computer, items that I find tend to
be high on the personal preference scale when it comes to satisfaction.
The top brands really all perform much the same for recreational diving...
so the best route IMO is to try before you buy.

Not trying to diffuse your enthusiasm here... I started like that
bought everything at the outset and then quickly found I had what the
shop/Instructor thought would be good for me.
Needless to say I then began a mission to replace the gear bit by bit
with what I really liked and understood after several months/dives of
experience.

I encourage my students to do the same... and being from Canada suggest
they should not spend valuable tropical dive trip money on gear which
they can rent while they expand their diving experience.
Of course that is easy for me to say since I don't sell gear.  ;-)


> As I'm a newbie deluxe on this, I'll just draw pictures. ;)  I don't know
> the brand names:
>
> Mask (Choice of 6-8)
> Snorkel (Choice of quite a few)
> Fins (Choice of 5-6)
> Booties (think long or short)
> Env. Suit (I think 3 mil but don't quote me, it is not the thinnest, that's
> a cheaper package)
> Reg.
> Computer
> BC vest with int. weights
> 2 soft-side bags
> 1 Mesh dive bag
> Plastic Mask box
>
> I think that's it, but I must be missing something that's a "standard item".
>
> OW Training (NAUI maybe?)

Make sure you get good vibes from the Instructor who will teach you.....
that is often more important that the agency.


Michael
--
Divers know the true meaning of peace of mind.