Absolute best cave diving equipment

I am searching for the absolute best cave diving equipment that money can buy, if it was not a concern.

I want to know what drysuit, wetsuit, underclothing, BCD, back plate, harness, fins, mask, torches, sensors, computers, communication gear, rebreather, etc...
Which rebreather is being used by navy rescue divers and SEALS? I heard Draeger, but which model?

I am trying to obtain a number of opinions on this topic! Your input is much appreciated.
Lastly, I want to get my friend certified for cave diving who is recommended in the United States for instruction and why?

Best,

Chad

http://skugg.files.wordpress.com/200...n-of-worms.jpg

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Originally Posted by jj1987

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ROFLMFAO :-D

If it looks like a troll....

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

I am searching for the absolute best cave diving equipment that money can buy..... communication gear

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For communication gear I use my left hand. I personally think it is the best equipment I could buy,but it isn't for sale; unless I go to Iran and am found guilty of stealing,then it is for sale.

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Originally Posted by Kelly Jessop

For communication gear I use my left hand. I personally think it is the best equipment I could buy,but it isn't for sale; unless I go to Iran and am found guilty of stealing,then it is for sale.

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ROFLMAO!!!!

I personally think the best piece of equipment is the cave snorkel.... available through Acme Cave Diving Equipment, purveyors of fine diving supplies and accoutrements.

Dive safe,

Celia

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Originally Posted by jj1987

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LOL!

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Originally Posted by amphipod06

Acme Cave Diving Equipment,

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NO WAY!!!!
Have you seen what happens to Willie Coyote when he uses Acme products.

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Originally Posted by Kelly Jessop

NO WAY!!!!
Have you seen what happens to Willie Coyote when he uses Acme products.

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and?..... they are still listed first on the yellow pages!!

Dive safe,

Celia

PS I think that for safety it has one of those occluders at the top, uses a ping pong ball or something like that on a cage.....

Okay enough of the jokes....

What equipment is recommended?

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Originally Posted by jj1987

http://skugg.files.wordpress.com/200...n-of-worms.jpg

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What time is dinner?

I heard Jeano Beano give a hearty recommendation for Bubba's Dive Gear Emporium and Technical Diving Institoot. Training and gear in one location!

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Originally Posted by Kelly Jessop

For communication gear I use my left hand. I personally think it is the best equipment I could buy,but it isn't for sale; unless I go to Iran and am found guilty of stealing,then it is for sale.

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I was thinking more like a digital or electronic device.

Hands work for sure though...

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

Okay enough of the jokes....

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As Mike says, ask ten different divers and you'll get eleven different opinions.

Don't try to get this question answered on the internet. Find an instructor

http://www.nsscds.com/
http://www.safecavediving.com/

and get your answers from him/her.

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Originally Posted by Slüdge

I heard Jeano Beano give a hearty recommendation for Bubba's Dive Gear Emporium and Technical Diving Institoot. Training and gear in one location!

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I would not buy anything from someone who cannot spell...institute!

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Originally Posted by Slüdge

I heard Jeano Beano give a hearty recommendation for Bubba's Dive Gear Emporium and Technical Diving Institoot. Training and gear in one location!

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And gas

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Originally Posted by Slüdge

As Mike says, ask ten different divers and you'll get eleven different opinions.

Don't try to get this question answered on the internet. Find an instructor

http://www.nsscds.com/
http://www.safecavediving.com/

and get your answers from him/her.

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I wanted several opinions not just one. I like a variety of offerings.....it makes research much more interesting!

Thanks for your insight though.

what about the Draeger rebreather any idea what model it is that the Spec Ops use? How does it differ from the civilian model?

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Originally Posted by Kelly Jessop

For communication gear I use my left hand. I personally think it is the best equipment I could buy,but it isn't for sale; unless I go to Iran and am found guilty of stealing,then it is for sale.

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It's the right hand that get's chopped off. The left hand is the 'unclean hand' . Thus by chopping off the right hand, you are forced to eat with the 'unclean hand' for the rest of your life.

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

Okay enough of the jokes....

What equipment is recommended?

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I'd seriously search archives and do some reading.

Your profile has nothing on you.

It'd be helpful if you gave some background information as to training and experience level.

Additionally, like Mike's signature says, you ask opinions of 10 different people and you'll get 10 different answers...so take everything with a grain of salt and do a lot of research.

Dive safe,

Celia

If money is no object a hooka system is a good set up. Just watch out for the locals--they'll use the compressor float to ice their beer down. You risk a toxic but great tasting drag at the opposite end of the hose!!

DICK diving is coming out with some specialist equipment soon. There will be clay sculpting utensils, rock carving knives and finger painting molds in Portuguese and English.

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

I wanted several opinions not just one. I like a variety of offerings.....it makes research much more interesting!

Thanks for your insight though.

what about the Draeger rebreather any idea what model it is that the Spec Ops use? How does it differ from the civilian model?

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http://www.gue.com
http://www.halcyon.net/

it seems as though this forum has more jokesters than professionals....

Those that left serious answers, thank you.

All my gear is the best.To me anyway.

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Originally Posted by amphipod06

It'd be helpful if you gave some background information as to training and experience level.

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Biography:
PADI certified in Wreck, Enriched Air, Rescue Diver, Deep Water, and Master Diver.

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Originally Posted by mmcauliffe

Biography:
PADI certified in Wreck, Enriched Air, Rescue Diver, Deep Water, and Master Diver.

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Agreed!

He dude,

It is obvious why everyone laughs. Take the time to read the forums and you know why.
There is no best 1 gear or gear brand. There are some good and some even better.

Read GUE's website. Read the threads here. Read read read. All you wanna know is in here.

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

it seems as though this forum has more jokesters than professionals....

Those that left serious answers, thank you.

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

it seems as though this forum has more jokesters than professionals....

Those that left serious answers, thank you.

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You ask a ridiculous question, you get ridiculous answers.

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Originally Posted by everdeeper43015

Agreed!

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That came from his profile

http://salvodiving.com/
http://www.siltoutdiving.com/
and lets not forget if you need to find somewhere to dive http://tampadiving.com/index.asp
And if your in PA stop at http://www.adventurescubastore.com/ We are now the only authorized PA dealers of both the Megalodon and KISS Rebreathers.

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

I am searching for the absolute best cave diving equipment that money can buy, if it was not a concern.

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Chad -

While this is a sport that is not for the faint of wallet, money will not make your dive safe. It will not get you out of the back of the cave when murphy hits. That being said, the best gear is the gear that you are familiar with, comfortable in, and comfortable using. We're all built differently and have slightly different variations of what is "natural" for us. By that I mean you want to be 100% comfortable with your gear at all times. If the best, most expensive piece of gear is awkward for you to use, then it is probably not right for you.

I would suggest finding an LDS that has a large inventory of gear that you can dive and try out. Get in with the shop and find an instructor. Find buddies that you get along with and see if they'll let you test dive some of their gear for a dive or two. If they're like a lot of us, they'll have more gear than they can dive in a (day, week, lifetime...) and probably won't have a problem letting you try it out and discuss the pros and cons with you before and afterwards. Look at how others configure their gear and find what is logical and natural to you.

Spend your money diving and getting the experience. Build your gear up one piece at a time after you have tried out different models from different manufacturers.

To your original question, you will find lots of posts on here (and maybe more on TDS) about gear and manufacturers. That will probably help you narrow in on some of the major brands to research (my personal favorites in alphabetical order are Dive Rite, OxyCheq, and Salvo).

Just remember, this is not a race and can be a very enjoyable and rewarding journey.

Have fun!
~Jeff

P.S. IF you REALLY have THAT MUCH MONEY. Then I am for sale as a dive buddy. You just need to stock up like Noah's ark -- two of everything. Oh yeah, living expenses, health benefits, and a pension. :)

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Originally Posted by icestac

Chad -

While this is a sport that is not for the faint of wallet, money will not make your dive safe. It will not get you out of the back of the cave when murphy hits. That being said, the best gear is the gear that you are familiar with, comfortable in, and comfortable using. We're all built differently and have slightly different variations of what is "natural" for us. By that I mean you want to be 100% comfortable with your gear at all times. If the best, most expensive piece of gear is awkward for you to use, then it is probably not right for you.

I would suggest finding an LDS that has a large inventory of gear that you can dive and try out. Get in with the shop and find an instructor. Find buddies that you get along with and see if they'll let you test dive some of their gear for a dive or two. If they're like a lot of us, they'll have more gear than they can dive in a (day, week, lifetime...) and probably won't have a problem letting you try it out and discuss the pros and cons with you before and afterwards. Look at how others configure their gear and find what is logical and natural to you.

Spend your money diving and getting the experience. Build your gear up one piece at a time after you have tried out different models from different manufacturers.

To your original question, you will find lots of posts on here (and maybe more on TDS) about gear and manufacturers. That will probably help you narrow in on some of the major brands to research (my personal favorites in alphabetical order are Dive Rite, OxyCheq, and Salvo).

Just remember, this is not a race and can be a very enjoyable and rewarding journey.

Have fun!
~Jeff

P.S. IF you REALLY have THAT MUCH MONEY. Then I am for sale as a dive buddy. You just need to stock up like Noah's ark -- two of everything. Oh yeah, living expenses, health benefits, and a pension. :)

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Thanks Jeff!

I just moved from PA to Delaware and have not found a dive buddy. I am currently trying to get my best friend certified and hopefully start diving with him. I however, am always looking for an LDS in my area where I may find a group who is as enthusiastic as everyone on this site.

In regards to the dive buddy comment, maybe next year! ;)

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Originally Posted by GNwes

You ask a ridiculous question, you get ridiculous answers.

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Actually I think the question was rather clear and and left open ended to allow other professional techical and cave divers answers to the questions.

I thought gathering a number of opinions online would suffice for finding an LDS and asking others the same.

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Originally Posted by icestac

they'll have more gear than they can dive in a (day, week, lifetime...)

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I resent that generalization.




Okay, I admit it. I own seven wings.:oops:

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Originally Posted by Slüdge

I resent that generalization.




Okay, I admit it. I own seven wings.:oops:

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That's terrific! How long have you been diving?

Chad,
icestac has provided you with some very good advice. I had a friend that had basically the same certs you hold and was interested in cave diving. Over the course of 2 years he quizzed and dove with cave cert. divers in our local quarries, asked a lot of questions, and experimented with their gear when offered. He slowly began to purchase piece by piece and practiced,practiced, and practiced some more. He dove the lakes and quarries thru the week, on weekends, at night, and whenever he could get wet. He had a wealth of pointers coming from his tech dive buddies. He finally went to nc fla for cavern thru full cave and did an excellent job. But he sure worked hard prepping for his experience and my hats off to him.
I think you will find or come to understand that there is a different mindset is required from that which may have been instilled during recreational courses. I used to work the table at a local dive site (quarry). I'd have divers exiting saying "what a nice dive--saw the paddlefish, etc.--it was a real fun dive". I would respond "great, glad you enjoyed it--how many times did you share air" Their response was "none--didn't need to". I would bet my bottom dollar the last time they did was 10 years ago during their O/W checkout. Not me! I look at this as a somewhat important skill that I practice at least once on every dive!
I'm sure in your dive experience you have witnessed someone let their second plop off a picnic table and start freeflowing. You probably heard someone respond "hey man, you're losing your air." We respond by "hey man, you're losing MY air!!" Dive safe!!

Thanks....for your story, I appreciate your kindness.

Best,

Chad

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Originally Posted by imdown

Chad,
icestac has provided you with some very good advice. I had a friend that had basically the same certs you hold and was interested in cave diving. Over the course of 2 years he quizzed and dove with cave cert. divers in our local quarries, asked a lot of questions, and experimented with their gear when offered. He slowly began to purchase piece by piece and practiced,practiced, and practiced some more. He dove the lakes and quarries thru the week, on weekends, at night, and whenever he could get wet. He had a wealth of pointers coming from his tech dive buddies. He finally went to nc fla for cavern thru full cave and did an excellent job. But he sure worked hard prepping for his experience and my hats off to him.
I think you will find or come to understand that there is a different mindset is required from that which may have been instilled during recreational courses. I used to work the table at a local dive site (quarry). I'd have divers exiting saying "what a nice dive--saw the paddlefish, etc.--it was a real fun dive". I would respond "great, glad you enjoyed it--how many times did you share air" Their response was "none--didn't need to". I would bet my bottom dollar the last time they did was 10 years ago during their O/W checkout. Not me! I look at this as a somewhat important skill that I practice at least once on every dive!
I'm sure in your dive experience you have witnessed someone let their second plop off a picnic table and start freeflowing. You probably heard someone respond "hey man, you're losing your air." We respond by "hey man, you're losing MY air!!" Dive safe!!

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by icestac

Chad -

While this is a sport that is not for the faint of wallet, money will not make your dive safe. It will not get you out of the back of the cave when murphy hits. That being said, the best gear is the gear that you are familiar with, comfortable in, and comfortable using. We're all built differently and have slightly different variations of what is "natural" for us. By that I mean you want to be 100% comfortable with your gear at all times. If the best, most expensive piece of gear is awkward for you to use, then it is probably not right for you.

I would suggest finding an LDS that has a large inventory of gear that you can dive and try out. Get in with the shop and find an instructor. Find buddies that you get along with and see if they'll let you test dive some of their gear for a dive or two. If they're like a lot of us, they'll have more gear than they can dive in a (day, week, lifetime...) and probably won't have a problem letting you try it out and discuss the pros and cons with you before and afterwards. Look at how others configure their gear and find what is logical and natural to you.

Spend your money diving and getting the experience. Build your gear up one piece at a time after you have tried out different models from different manufacturers.

To your original question, you will find lots of posts on here (and maybe more on TDS) about gear and manufacturers. That will probably help you narrow in on some of the major brands to research (my personal favorites in alphabetical order are Dive Rite, OxyCheq, and Salvo).

Just remember, this is not a race and can be a very enjoyable and rewarding journey.

Have fun!
~Jeff

P.S. IF you REALLY have THAT MUCH MONEY. Then I am for sale as a dive buddy. You just need to stock up like Noah's ark -- two of everything. Oh yeah, living expenses, health benefits, and a pension. :)

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Chad, Icestac has given you excellent advice here. Go slow, take your time, and don't be a cheapass when it come to paying for instruction. Make yourself a student of the sport. Cavediving is more of a journey than a destination, there's always some other goal or way to improve your techniques. Have fun along the way, and don't rush into situations you're not comfortable with - incremental challenges to your abilities are better than a come-to-Jesus dive that your manage to survive (or not). BTW, I've been diving since 1970, cave diving approx. 4 years and only Full Cave for six months, and a self-professed newbie at it - but that's OK. Don't do it if you have something to prove to someone else, or it'll get you into deep do-do.

I had an instructor who swore that.....
Din valves were inferior to Yoke.
Jacket BC's were better than a bp/w for single tank diving.
Stuffing the long hose was superior to breathing it.
Intro divers should only dive a single tank configuration (no doubles).
A handle style primary (non canister) was perfectly fine for cave diving.

Knowing this, go read GUE's website, and you'll quickly learn why it's impossible to specify one gear configuration for cave diving. After you see how different this mentality is from GUE, let me tell you that the instructor I took was the same one that did the current president of GUE's full cave cert in the late 1980's.

Times change, people change, and gear changes. You've just got to figure out what mentality you feel safer with.

Here's a basic gear configuration disagreement. What post should your inflater hose come off of?
Option A- Right post, so that if your donating air, and your "safe" 2nd stage fails you can breathe your inflater.
Option B- left post, so that if your valve rolls off, your inflater not working will warn you of this.

Another hot topic is do you stuff the long hose or donate off of the long hose.
Option A- Donate off the long hose, which guarantees that a panicked diver gets a working 2nd stage.
Option B- Stuff the long hose which guarantees that you don't have to take a working 2nd stage out of your mouth, or pass the working 2nd stage to an OOA diver who won't give it back if your backup is failing.

I personally choose option A in both cases, but other divers way more experienced than myself, choose option B. But then again, divers way more experienced than me also choose option A. Well known and respected cave divers can't even agree on how to hook up gear, let alone what gear is best. I'm afraid it's impossible to find one answer that is accepted as correct. I was happy to find an instructor who explained the pro's and con's of the various setups and let me choose my own opinion (but made sure I understood why it was setup the way that it was).

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Originally Posted by jj1987

Another hot topic is do you stuff the long hose or donate off of the long hose.
Option A- Donate off the long hose, which guarantees that a panicked diver gets a working 2nd stage.

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I always told my students after completing class you will never see the OOA signal (slashing across throat).
The OOA signal you will see is large set of eyes coming at you with clawing hand extended grabbing the reg you are breathing on (they know that one works) and your mask becomes turned sideways or is knocked off. Two students came back and told me I was right about the OOA signal.

I wish all agencies taught the long hose and bungie on spare second stage.

Can we get any more dramatic?

Sure, most out-of-air situations are when the diver comes at you with wide eyes and grabs whatever he can. But this diver isn't in a cave. This is a brand new open water diver who was never taught to monitor his spg, and he goes to take a breath that isn't there. He panics.

In a cave, this isn't going to happen. Air rules state that you will ALWAYS finish the dive with a third of what you started with. Even a catastrophic air loss will give you a minute or more to get your ducks in a row. So a cave diver won't be swimming along and suddenly be out of air.

If you can't monitor your gas supply, you can't dive with me in a cave.

And by the way, there are five reasons why breathing the long hose is "superior" to stuffing it. They're all based on faulty logic. I stuff mine the way the Good Lord intended.

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Originally Posted by jj1987

http://skugg.files.wordpress.com/200...n-of-worms.jpg

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Where can I get some of these? I'm getting a little bored with sardines.

Mike

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

I am searching for the absolute best cave diving equipment that money can buy, if it was not a concern.

I want to know what drysuit, wetsuit, underclothing, BCD, back plate, harness, fins, mask, torches, sensors, computers, communication gear, rebreather, etc...
Which rebreather is being used by navy rescue divers and SEALS? I heard Draeger, but which model?

I am trying to obtain a number of opinions on this topic! Your input is much appreciated.
Lastly, I want to get my friend certified for cave diving who is recommended in the United States for instruction and why?

Best,

Chad

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Hi Chad,

The absolute best piece of equipment for cave diving is the head on your shoulders!

Seriously.. Everything else is just preference. Sidemount, Backmount, Rebreathers, etc... That comes down to preference.

The reason that you are getting silly answers is because your question is along the lines of "What is the absolute pretties color in the whole world"

Everybody has a different opinion.

Figure out what kind of diving you want to do, and get the tools for the job. That's it.

As far as military rebreathers, I dove 2 SSBN's and one SSN while in the Navy. They are fairly complex systems, but the training is free. All you need is a signature and 6 years of your life. :yawinkle:

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Originally Posted by Mike Edmonston

Hi Chad,

The absolute best piece of equipment for cave diving is the head on your shoulders!

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Thanks Mike, best answer in the book. Used far too little. LOL, Cindy

Q) what's the best car? the best food? the best color? ...

A) It Depends

educate yourself. use the search function (and Google) to brush up on the equipment options. Get training and experience so you know what's best for you (and be able to explain your decisions)

Mark 16 mixed gas CCR made by Carleton Technologies about $70000, The Draeger LAR V O2 rebreather is out there if your into shallow water cave diving only

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Originally Posted by Slüdge

If you can't monitor your gas supply, you can't dive with me in a cave.

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Yes, during orientation for my OW classes I used to ask everyone if they ever ran out of gas on the highway/freeway. If they answered yes, I told them that diving may not be the sport for you!

Chad, you got a lot of good answers and a lot of good links. Plus you are subscribed to the CDF (that's the best piece of equipment other then your head). :)

If you hook up with an LDS/Instructor PM folks for opinions about what they tell you.

I'm going to have to respectfully disagree with you Kelly. I believe the right hand is in fact the superior piece of communication equipment. I find it allows for greater dexterity for those really complex messages. ;o)

This whole thread really cracks me up.

I have:

A rebreather

Three sidemount rigs

Two backmount rigs

Two single tank setups (I still occasionally use a recreational BC).

Etc etc. I use ALL of them. Depends on the dive.

It's just funny to me to think that someone thinks there's a "best" piece of dive gear.

For a comparison, look at Formula 1. I know you guys don't follow it much, but much of the car changes EVERY RACE depending on temperatures, max speed, corners etc.

ONE piece of advice - fancier is not necessarily better, especially in the caves. This is a serious KISS environment. I use Aqualung Titan regs for example, after endless hassles with my technologically fantascit but ridiculously finnicky Apeks 200's. The Titans cost 1/2 as much and are far more reliable.

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Originally Posted by swadiver

Mark 16 mixed gas CCR made by Carleton Technologies about $70000, The Draeger LAR V O2 rebreather is out there if your into shallow water cave diving only

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Where may I find more info on Carleton Technologies and the Mark 16?

see your local US Navy recruiter. he will be glad to tell you how to find out a LOT more about it

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Originally Posted by swadiver

see your local US Navy recruiter. he will be glad to tell you how to find out a LOT more about it

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Ask the FBI when they contact you :)

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Originally Posted by FBI

Washington, D.C. (Jun 22, 2007 16:51 EST) The purpose of this advisory is to provide situational awareness to the scuba industry regarding behavior that may indicate an individual(s) is involved in nefarious activity.


The following threat indicators, taken in isolation, generally reflect legitimate recreational and commercial activities. In combination with other information, they can indicate possible links to criminal behavior. Please note, the below indicators are not an all inclusive list, these indicators represent a baseline that could possibly indicate suspicious behavior.


Training Indicators


Requests for specialty training, including odd inquiries that are inconsistent with recreational diving. These may include:


Requests to dive in murky water or sewer pipes.
Inquires about procedures such as diver towing.


Requests to learn advanced skills associated with combat swimming, including:


Use of re-breathers and diver propulsion vehicles (DPVs).
Deep diving.
Conducting kick counts.
Receiving extra navigation training.


Requests for advanced diver training by applicants from countries where diving is not a common recreational activity. Similarly, training sponsored by groups or agencies such as religious organizations, cults, associations, or charitable agencies not normally associated with diving.


Potentially Suspicious Equipment Purchases or Rentals


Volume purchasing inquires related to Swimmer Delivery Vehicles (SDVs) and Diver Propulsion Vehicles (DPVs). SDVs are very expensive vehicles normally used for specialized military purposes, and usually are not available to recreational divers. Efforts to purchase DPVs, the more commonly available civilian counterpart to SDVs, could be associated with extending the range or payload capacity or a combat swimmer team.


Other Indicators:


Paying cash for diving instruction.
Refusal or reluctance to provide personal information.


Recipients are requested to report suspicious or criminal activity to their local FBI Office.

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

Where may I fund more info on Carleton Technologies and the Mark 16?

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A 26 year old asking how to buy a $70k rebreather.

I want YOUR parents!

...Or you're a sock puppet.

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Originally Posted by aainslie

A 26 year old asking how to buy a $70k rebreather.

I want YOUR parents!

...Or you're a sock puppet.

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LOL! I am a portfolio manager for a hedge fund I started with some colleagues of mine, and the markets have performed well for us. Especially the Euro and our options expired in good standing. My father now works for me as senior counsel, secretary / treasurer.

Sock puppet....LOL!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by aainslie

A 26 year old asking how to buy a $70k rebreather.

I want YOUR parents!

...Or you're a sock puppet.

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Originally Posted by icestac

Ask the FBI when they contact you :)

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lol! Thanks for the laughs....

We should always be in the look out for "evil doers"!

How many ways can people say "it's not about the gear". You're approaching this from the wrong point of view. If gear made you a cave diver then everyone with more money than sense would be doing it. It takes a great deal of training and progressive experience. Becoming a cave diver is not easy, nor should it be..... and you definitely can't buy it.

I will sell you all my cave gear. It is THE best around. It has been tested thoroughly and I can assure you it will perform well under stress, and all a cave can throw at you.

For about 75K we should be able to close the deal.........

Quote:

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Originally Posted by MengTze

I will sell you all my cave gear. It is THE best around. It has been tested thoroughly and I can assure you it will perform well under stress, and all a cave can throw at you.

For about 75K we should be able to close the deal.........

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Dammit Freddy, you beat me to it!!!

Dive safe,

Celia

PS I will sell you all mine, with the same guarantee for $79 (it's prettier...)

Icestac,

I can remember the day the FBI called the recreational shop I worked for with that message...

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Originally Posted by amphipod06

PS I will sell you all mine, with the same guarantee for $79 (it's prettier...)

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Sold! Or did you leave out a K?:smt079

Since she left out the K I take it for only $80.00 that is eighty dollars. I think her stuff will fit me, LOL

SLIM

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Originally Posted by Scubastud16

Icestac,

I can remember the day the FBI called the recreational shop I worked for with that message...

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I was working for a diveshop in VA, when a mid-eastern guy came in, and wanted a quote for a hunded sets of "silent diving gear, and dive lights that could be seen for at least one mile". Today that would raise a lot of FBI eyebrows :-)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by FW

I was working for a diveshop in VA, when a mid-eastern guy came in, and wanted a quote for a hunded sets of "silent diving gear, and dive lights that could be seen for at least one mile". Today that would raise a lot of FBI eyebrows :-)

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What if it was a Dutch guy, or a German guy?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by MengTze

What if it was a Dutch guy, or a German guy?

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Well, since the US is not profiling the Dutch and the Germans, I'm pretty sure they would be left alone. :smt102

Then again, the dutch do partly live below sea level... :?

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Originally Posted by Mike Edmonston

Well, since the US is not profiling the Dutch and the Germans, I'm pretty sure they would be left alone. :smt102

Then again, the dutch do partly live below sea level... :?

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And that is the blind spot...................to focus on a combination of nationality/origins and items/logistics rather than just on the items and logistics. I am sure there is more to that, but just highlighting a point.

How about a 26 year old asking for the best cave equipment around, money is not an issue?.....Does that raise an eyebrow?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by MengTze

How about a 26 year old asking for the best cave equipment around, money is not an issue?.....Does that raise an eyebrow?

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Absolutely! That is why the thread started down this path :-)

I left out a part of my story. It took place 30 years ago, and were weren't profiling anyone back then.... :roll:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by MengTze

How about a 26 year old asking for the best cave equipment around, money is not an issue?.....Does that raise an eyebrow?

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Not hard for a mod to run an IP trace...

Here are some helpful links:

http://www.ip-adress.com/ipaddresstolocation/

http://www.arin.net/whois/

http://visualiptrace.visualware.com/

For those not too net savvy, here is a How-to video:
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/318719...ss_or_website/


Enjoy :yawinkle:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by MengTze

How about a 26 year old asking for the best cave equipment around, money is not an issue?.....Does that raise an eyebrow?

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If he's managing a hedge fund, money not an issue is not surprising. I work for a hedge fund and see what those guys take in management and performance fees.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by caroln

If he's managing a hedge fund, money not an issue is not surprising. I work for a hedge fund and see what those guys take in management and performance fees.

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Hedge fund?? I just saw "Over the Hedge" last weekend. Does he manage a Pet shop?? :yawinkle:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

LOL! I am a portfolio manager for a hedge fund I started with some colleagues of mine, and the markets have performed well for us. Especially the Euro and our options expired in good standing. My father now works for me as senior counsel, secretary / treasurer.

Sock puppet....LOL!

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OK, so there's only ONE piece of cave gear you need to buy.

A damn good instructor. Get individual lessons since you can afford them. Take your classes near big retail outlets that stock good gear (High Springs comes to mind). And s/he will advise you on what to buy.

Be prepared for the embarrassment of finding out that it's going to take you a while to successfully enter/exit a cave, and that during that time, you'll be learning all about what YOU want in your gear.

Also be prepared to buy many things that you grow to hate. That's the most expensive bit, in a way. Fortunately there's a pretty active 2nd hand market.

And how the hell does a 26 year old end up RUNNING a hedge fund? There's no way you ahve the combination of experience and education to do this. Congrats on getting lucky for a few years. I hope your clients will continue to be rich when your fund folds.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

Okay enough of the jokes....

What equipment is recommended?

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Are you a certified Cave Diver? Just curious because of your name here...

What equipment do you use? Who was your instructor?

Why would you want to use breathers that SEALs use? Why would not enquire about MDSU or NEDU?

blah...blah...blah...

The #1 piece of equipment in cave diving is your BRAIN!

Exactly!

Some people just don't understand technology. At McIntire School of Commerce, they made us utilze it not matter what our major.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Mike Edmonston

Not hard for a mod to run an IP trace...

Here are some helpful links:

http://www.ip-adress.com/ipaddresstolocation/

http://www.arin.net/whois/

http://visualiptrace.visualware.com/

For those not too net savvy, here is a How-to video:
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/318719...ss_or_website/


Enjoy :yawinkle:

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it

Quote:

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Originally Posted by caroln

If he's managing a hedge fund, money not an issue is not surprising. I work for a hedge fund and see what those guys take in management and performance fees.

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its called Cerulean Investment Strategies Group. We use R.J O'Brien, and Fortis Clearing Americas. Pepper Hamilton incorporated us and we use the Philadelphia branch with Greg Nowak. Go check....its all legit!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

it

its called Cerulean Investment Strategies Group. We use R.J O'Brien, and Fortis Clearing Americas. Pepper Hamilton incorporated us and we use the Philadelphia branch with Greg Nowak. Go check....its all legit!

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ResQCaveDiver - Don't be put off by some of by some of these guys comments, they aren't being inappropriate they are just being safe. Like all of them have said, there is no absolute best gear there is some that is better than others yes, but now and days all new gear by a reputable company is good. Also, the latest, fanciest, more high tech stuff is usually not the best. A dive computer that you can program 20 gases, play games and send text messages is worthless if it craps out in the back of the cave or calculates your deco wrong. It is the stuff that has been around for 20 years and stood up to the test of time and abuse that is the "best" stuff most would say. Congrats on the company, that is great, I would love to be able to retire at 35 and dive midweek and if you keep it up sounds like you could make a lot of people jealous in a few years. One piece of advise since you are new (I think), if you want to earn some respect on the boards here and money isn't a big issue for you then you can help support what Mike Edmonston and Joe Hartranft are doing. They are providing technical gear for the young (usually college age) diver who wants to dive safely but not make compromises in their safety by skimping on good reliable gear because of money. They are outfitting 2-3 divers with the works in order for them to enjoy this fantastic sport safely. Here is the thread on decostop: http://thedecostop.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30001

Good luck and let me know if you want me to test dive and review any gear in your search for the "best gear out there" ;O) All I ask is for 2 of such item so my buddy and I can enjoy ehh I mean "test" the gear out for you!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

Exactly!

Some people just don't understand technology. At McIntore School of Commerce, they made us utilze it not matter what our major.

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That is not understanding technology, that is looking up tools and using them. 'Understanding' would be an understanding of TCP and UDP layers, of octet assignments, of packet routing and bit assignment in packets....................

But alas I digress.

Same goes with cave diving, having the tools (gear) does not make for a cave diver. That understanding comes with usage and experience.

don't waste your time on this guy.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Slüdge

Sold! Or did you leave out a K?:smt079

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It's my snorkel......<G>

It is prettier and I don't use it anymore....

C

PS And did I mention alcohol was involved...?? <G>

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SLIM

Since she left out the K I take it for only $80.00 that is eighty dollars. I think her stuff will fit me, LOL

SLIM

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HAHAHHAHHAHAHHA, somehow I don't see you wearing all black anything......but as I mentioned alcohol being involved...,it may just do.....<G>

Dive safe,

Celia

(Who's inbibing as we speak!!!)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by MengTze

That is not understanding technology, that is looking up tools and using them. 'Understanding' would be an understanding of TCP and UDP layers, of octet assignments, of packet routing and bit assignment in packets....................

But alas I digress.

Same goes with cave diving, having the tools (gear) does not make for a cave diver. That understanding comes with usage and experience.

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No, it understanding what is available....

Thanks, Julie, your advice was much appreciated as some other posters here.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by downtownjb1

ResQCaveDiver - Don't be put off by some of by some of these guys comments, they aren't being inappropriate they are just being safe. Like all of them have said, there is no absolute best gear there is some that is better than others yes, but now and days all new gear by a reputable company is good. Also, the latest, fanciest, more high tech stuff is usually not the best. A dive computer that you can program 20 gases, play games and send text messages is worthless if it craps out in the back of the cave or calculates your deco wrong. It is the stuff that has been around for 20 years and stood up to the test of time and abuse that is the "best" stuff most would say. Congrats on the company, that is great, I would love to be able to retire at 35 and dive midweek and if you keep it up sounds like you could make a lot of people jealous in a few years. One piece of advise since you are new (I think), if you want to earn some respect on the boards here and money isn't a big issue for you then you can help support what Mike Edmonston and Joe Hartranft are doing. They are providing technical gear for the young (usually college age) diver who wants to dive safely but not make compromises in their safety by skimping on good reliable gear because of money. They are outfitting 2-3 divers with the works in order for them to enjoy this fantastic sport safely. Here is the thread on decostop: http://thedecostop.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30001

Good luck and let me know if you want me to test dive and review any gear in your search for the "best gear out there" ;O) All I ask is for 2 of such item so my buddy and I can enjoy ehh I mean "test" the gear out for you!

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by ResQCaveDiver

Where may I find more info on Carleton Technologies and the Mark 16?

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Im only guessing but....

Its always a concern when you see a person get excited about something purely because of the price tag.
Go do some more diving, learn the gear, then make some informed decisions.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by everdeeper43015

Agreed!

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I got ya'll all beat. I got PADI's Underwater Navigation. I learned - "F it. We'll get there eventually." Damned if it ain't worked for me in cave diving so far.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by MengTze

'Understanding' would be an understanding of TCP and UDP layers, of octet assignments, of packet routing and bit assignment in packets....................

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ACK


:yawinkle:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Slüdge

And by the way, there are five reasons why breathing the long hose is "superior" to stuffing it. They're all based on faulty logic. I stuff mine the way the Good Lord intended.

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Would you mind expanding on this? If you don't want to take this thread way off topic, could you PM me?

Thx,

Rob