Quote Originally Posted by BabyDuck
i really understand where you're coming from, and feel for you, but i don't think starting in the gear i use now would have been any advantage *at all*. i spent about $1500 on an openwater setup. i've replaced EVERYTHING. just the *lights* for cave diving are up to $1500 each, as are computers, and doubles with a manifold, and drysuits - see what i mean?

starting off in doubles with a vr3 isn't a good idea.
To be fair if we were smart enough to ask questions as he is doing right now maybe I would have opted not to buy those 2 al 80s and bought 2 steel tanks that could be set up for doubles later after training progressed.
And I wouldnt have bought that 600 dollar aladin air computer that required a 115 dollar battery replacement that was a console.
And lights why not buy one that can serve as a backup?
I just saved boatload of money and can dive Open Water.

Quote Originally Posted by BabyDuck
now, that being said, there *are* some things that you can get from the ground up. basic paddle fins like jets, turtles, or rockets. two good second stages, one on a long hose and one bungeed under your chin. a backplate or transplate with continuous webbing. a simple, good-fitting mask. a nice wetsuit & booties (yeah, you'll most likely go dry eventually, but start wet since you live in the warm). if you're going to go computer, go ahead and get one that does nitrox. you'll have to get other stuff, but put your money in these things since you'll be continuing to use them.

but the most important thing is a buddy willing to be a mentor, because the skills are different than what you'll be taught in open water. i'd never have been ab
I agree completly.

Im jealouse this guy he had a better plan then I did when I got certified.
Not knowing where I was going with this at the time and buying the wrong things that could have been used as I progressed still is upsetting.

I would have liked someone to say hey dont buy that octo just buy another set of regs you may not need that second first stage now but later it may come in handy.

I dont want this to be taken as bashing to anyone but I really liked his question and would have liked to find a place to ask the same.

John