My intro and story

[mkenyon2]

First, let me say, hello from PA.

Growing up, my uncle dove, buying his own equipment, making his own weights, spear fishing for Bluefish off the CT/RI coasts. I was always facinated by the sport, especially when he went to the Great Barrier Reef and brought back pictures.

As a teen, a friend let me use their equipment (mask, tank, regulator, and fins) in their pool. (Maybe not the best idea, but it was only his in-ground pool.) Even though there wasn't much to see, I loved the feel of being in the water.

I've had several friends that loved diving, but have never been able to afford to get into the sport. The price always seemed daunting. Even if I could, I wouldn't have time to go more than once or twice a year. And knowing I'd have to have some equipment registered yearly seemed like a problem. But then again, I don't know that I'd like to 'borrow/rent' equipment.

What could somebody like me do to get into the sport in an inexpensive way? Some friends have suggested snorkeling, and I have a mask and snorkel. (Fins coming soon...) But I know it will only feed my desire to see and do more.

[tx.lakerat]

welcome to the board!

[Moxie]

Hi MKenyon2. I understand about not wanting to rent, but if you're only diving a couple of times a year, it just might make sense. Another great alternative is to check out the Used Stuff For Sale forum here at ScubaToys. http://forum.scubatoys.com/forumdisplay.php?f=20

[Foo2]

Hey MKenyon2! I too love to dive but can't afford to purchase all of my gear at once. I recommend starting small. Find some good used gear at a decent price and work your way up. My next purchase will hopefully be a reg. I've gotta save up some pennies!

[BSea]

I started diving when I was in college, and had to buy my gear on lay-away. (Does anybody do that anymore? Guess I'm dating myself) Anyway, I just bought a little at a time. I didn't really expand my gear till I was out of school for a few years. Then I slowly bought piece by piece till I had a complete set. You don't need top of the line right out of the gate, and buying used is a great way to get started.

[I ate nemo]

im 14 so expensive stuff is out of the picture but i like to buy the small not so expensive stuff. my uncle gave me his ocianic reg set so now all i need is a bc. but for equipment i would look in the used for sell forums.

[cgvmer]

I suggest keeping an eye ebay there is alot of equipment available. BUYER beware of course....

[Goober]

Welcome to the board. And a healthy addiction.

[Matt P]

Hey, welcome aboard! Also from PA...

Just put it on a credit card. It's the American way! Just kidding...save up then dive in. You'll never look back

[CaptainRon]

My 13 yo just bought the package Scuba Toys has for $365 (even cheaper when you add in the 10% discount). It's nothing fancy, but she is having a blast diving with her "own" gear. I did finance it for her and she is paying me back with money she earns from different odd jobs and birthday gift money. As a hobby, the sky is the limit on what you can spend, but it really doesn't have to be anymore expensive than some of the new video game consoles or a new TV.