10
Rules for Buying Dive Gear
By Rich Sauer
1. Buy the right equipment
the first time. Look at this as a one- time investment and buy what you need.
Don't say, "I'll start cheap and upgrade later," because it will
end up costing you more money in the long run.
2. Don't buy gear that doesn't fit properly, no matter how much you like it.
3. Buy your equipment through an authorized dealer for that manufacturer.
If you don't, you may be sacrificing the warranty and service agreements.
4. Buy gear that has the features that you need. Don't over- or under-do it.
5. Buy a compass. You will need it.
6. Invest in a computer. It will enhance the diving experience and, if used
properly, make your diving safer.
7. Don't buy things without trying them on or sampling the features.
8. Ask questions. Don't buy something until you know that it's right for you.
9. Don't buy gear strictly on a recommendation from a friend. Not everything
that's right for them is right for you.
10. Stay away from used dive equipment. You don't know its history, you won't
receive any warranty, and you could be compromising important service agreements.